Is it safe to take PPIs long term?
When taken as directed, PPIs are generally safe for most people. However, there are some risks associated with them, particularly when used long–term. Although these risks are uncommon, kidney disease, fractures, infections and vitamin deficiencies are associated with using PPIs for more than a year.
Can you take PPIs for years?
Some studies have warned of doctors being too quick to prescribe PPIs and patients staying on them for too long. Others have found little reason for concern. LeighAnn Miller of Knoxville, TN, was on PPIs for years without any problems.
How long can proton pump inhibitors be used?
How long should I take PPIs? OTC products should not be used for more than 2 weeks unless you are told to do so by your healthcare provider.
What is the safest PPI to take long term?
References
| Safety concern | PPI studied | Duration of studies |
|---|---|---|
| Gastric carcinoids | Omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole | 1–8 years |
| Gastric metaplasia/adenocarcinoma | Omeprazole | 1–5 years |
| Enteric infections | Omeprazole | 1 year |
| Mineral malabsorption | Omeprazole | 6 months–2 years |
What is the safest drug for acid reflux?
If you have mild reflux symptoms that occur less than two times a week, you can start with a low dose of famotidine (Pepcid) or cimetidine (Tagamet).
How do I stop taking proton pump inhibitors?
Lower your PPI dose for 2-4 weeks
day for 1-2 weeks, and then take one pill every other day for another 1-2 weeks. If tapering off over 2-4 weeks feels too fast, you may taper more gradually. It is okay to follow this plan for 8- 12 weeks.
What happens when you stop taking PPIs?
When you discontinue PPIs, there is rebound gastric hyper-secretion in those who have been on them for prolonged periods of time. Rebound symptoms should resolve within two weeks. Folks who have been taking PPIs for a period of six months might consider tapering down their dose instead of stopping cold turkey.
What can I take instead of proton pump inhibitors?
Although PPIs were found to be more effective in treating symptoms and complications associated with GERD, H2 blockers have proven to be just as effective in suppressing gastric acid. H2 blockers are available by prescription or over-the-counter, and include ranitidine, famotidine, cimetidine and nizatidine.
How do you cure GERD permanently?
Lifestyle and home remedies
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Stop smoking.
- Elevate the head of your bed.
- Don’t lie down after a meal.
- Eat food slowly and chew thoroughly.
- Avoid foods and drinks that trigger reflux.
- Avoid tight-fitting clothing.
Does Gerd ever go away?
GERD is a potentially serious condition, and it will not go away on its own. Untreated GERD can lead to inflammation of the esophagus and cause complications like ulcers, strictures and increased risk of Barrett’s esophagus, which is a precursor to esophageal cancer.
How long does it take for stomach acid to return to normal?
For most people acid levels return to normal within one to two weeks.
What foods neutralize stomach acid?
Foods that may help reduce your symptoms
- Vegetables. Vegetables are naturally low in fat and sugar, and they help reduce stomach acid.
- Ginger.
- Oatmeal.
- Noncitrus fruits.
- Lean meats and seafood.
- Egg whites.
- Healthy fats.
Which is safer ranitidine or omeprazole?
Conclusions: Maintenance treatment with omeprazole (20 or 10 mg once daily) is superior to ranitidine (150 mg twice daily) in keeping patients with erosive reflux esophagitis in remission over a 12-month period.
Can you take PPI every day?
If you have Barrett’s esophagus you should be on a once-daily PPI for life. If you have reflux without Barrett’s esophagus, you could probably be on the lowest effective maintenance dose, which may be once every day, or it might be every other day. It may even be on-demand therapy.
Can PPI make GERD worse?
If a PPI is stopped, people who have been taking it may find they have even worse acid reflux than before. This happens because the PPIs are good at shutting down acid production. When the PPI is stopped, there is nothing holding the stomach back from making acid.