TFM Blog
FDA warns of more trouble with PPI’s
The FDA has added another warning about proton pump inhibitors ( Prilosec, omeprazole, prevacid, nexium, protonix, aciphex, zegerid, etc..). They are being used more often and are now available over the counter so as use increases, more troubles arise.
The latest concern points to increased risk of osteoporosis, or loss of bone density which increases the risk of fractures. If you are at risk and have been having yearly physical exams ( Complete Physicals ) then this has been monitored for you and hopefully addressed.
The latest risk included a review of 7 studies. Six of the seven studies show increased risk of fractures to the hip, wrist and / or spine. Postmenopausal women ( after menopause ) that used PPI medications had 26% increased risk of wrist fractures and forearm fractures. They also had 47% increased risk of spine fractures, and overall 25% increased risk of total fractures.
Other bad news, increased risk of Clostridium difficile infections ( sometimes called C. Diff) which is a very dangerous gastrointestinal infection.
Using PPI medications while on plavix reduces the effect of the blood thinner which increases risk for those with high risk of heart attack or stroke.
Some studies show increased risk of pneumonia, which makes sense as the acid barrier is shot off while on these medications and bacteria is not as easily killed in the stomach before it is potentially refluxed into the lungs.
I try to limit the use of these medications as much as possible but it’s not easy to stop them. Most important thing that can be done is lifestyle modification, please read the blog posting in April for more information when I tried to warn of the risks:
Heartburn and Reflux or GERD April 25, 2009
Be careful and be sure to discuss this with your physician, clinic or specialist before stopping your medication. There are conditions that are high risk without the use of these medications as well. NEVER just stop the medication as you’ll likely have a severe rebound of acid production and symptoms that can be very dangerous and sometimes even worse than the original problem!
More information is available online:
US News and World Report - Not the best medical journal but good information and advice.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
