Women and PPI's

Do you suffer from heartburn?  If your answer is yes, then chances are that you have been prescribed or taken an over the counter PPI.

PPI stands for Proton Pump Inhibitors.  This drug is prescribed for heartburn caused by acid reflux disease.  The most common PPI's that you probably heard of or seen on TV commercials are Nexum, Prevacid, Prilosec, Aciphex and Protonix.

Even though these drugs are considered safe, a study has revealed that women are at risk of bone fracture especially in post menopausal women if the drug is used long term. For women who have risk of osteoporosis, the medications increase the risk of these fractures.   This is not news, but the effects of these drugs are NOT commonly known to many users and we wanted to make you aware.

The study shows that a 35% risk factor of hip fracture is present after taken PPI for 2 years, 42% after taking it for 4 years and 55% if taken PPI for 6-8 years.  The problem with these drugs is that they block calcium absorption by changing stomach hormones causing this risk to the bones.

It is  recommended that if you take a prescribed  PPI to take a daily calcium supplement and Vitamin D.  You can also strengthen the bones by doing some walking and/or running.

If you take over the counter PPI for your heartburn on a regular basis and you have not seen your doctor yet, please make sure you do and bring this fact to his/her attention.