The Concerns Of Proton Pump Inhibitors Side Effects
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) side-effects are a major concern for users. These side-effects can be very serious and may far outweigh the benefits that consumers expect from taking PPIs.
PPIs are widely available either over-the-counter or by prescription. The most common brands of these medications are Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole), Nexium (Esomeprazole), Prilosec (Omeprazole), Protonix (Pantoprazole), Prevacid (Lansoprazole), and Aciphex (Rabeprazole). They are generally taken orally in either pill or liquid form.
Roughly 15 million people in the United States take PPIs for stomach acid problems each day. The drugs are used to treat a variety of diseases. However, many individuals who take PPIs are unaware of the side-effects that they are at risk of experiencing.
These side-effects can include a reduction of stomach acid production to the point of nutrition problems. Individuals taking PPIs can have trouble gaining nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from their food. This puts individuals using PPIs at risk of weakened bones more prone to break, for example.
Taking PPIs can also result in higher vulnerability to infections. Individuals taking the drugs have a higher risk of Clostridium difficile, salmonella, and possibly even pneumonia.
Today studies continue to reveal new potential proton pump inhibitors side-effects. For instance, a recent study by the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Bonn found that individuals over the age of 75 had a 44% higher risk of suffering with dementia, although the reason why has yet to be determined.