Can proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) be used long-term?
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) should only be used for a couple of months, maximum, before gradually tapering off to prevent acid rebound. Long-term use has been associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis-related fractures of the hip and spine, pneumonia, kidney disease, Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, and vitamin B12, magnesium, or iron deficiency.
PPI side effects may include a headache, constipation or diarrhea, flatulence, or nausea. PPIs can also interact with some other drugs, such as clopidogrel (Plavix), or affect the absorption of certain drugs, such as iron salts, ketoconazole, and vitamin B12.
PPIs suppress gastric acid secretion by shutting down the stomach proton pumps. This is the final stage of acid secretion which makes PPIs more effective than H2 blockers. PPIs take a bit longer than H2 blockers to start working.
Different brands of PPIs include dexlansoprazole (Dexilant), esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and omeprazole (Prilosec), but generic forms are often cheaper. Over-the-counter versions are available, too.
Read next
Is famotidine safer than omeprazole for heartburn?
Famotidine is usually the first choice to treat occasional heartburn if your symptoms occur less than two times per week. It can be used as needed, provides quick relief (within 15 to 30 minutes), and is usually less expensive than omeprazole. Omeprazole may be an option if your heartburn occurs two or more days per week. Both products are available without a prescription. Continue reading
Can you take an antacid with omeprazole?
You can take an antacid with omeprazole if you are still getting symptoms of indigestion because it can take several days for omeprazole to start working. Take omeprazole as directed (usually taken once daily on an empty stomach), and take antacids as needed to relieve indigestion pain after eating. But tell your doctor if several weeks have gone past and omeprazole does not seem to be working or you are still taking antacids. Continue reading
Can you take metformin without food?
If you take metformin without food you may end up with an upset stomach, especially if you are just starting treatment. Nausea and vomiting is one of the most common side effects with metformin and can occur in over a quarter of patients. Continue reading
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