Proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, are used to treat and manage acid-related stomach disorders such as heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease and stomach ulcers. PPIs are one of most prescribed medications, and are also available over the counter. PPIs reduce the production of stomach acid to decrease symptoms such as heartburn, but do not treat the underlying causes of the disorder. Dr. Ray Sahelian M.D., notes that though PPIs are considered safe when used as recommended, they can cause long-term effects when taken for long periods.
Diarrhea
Long-term use of proton pump inhibitor medications may cause an increased growth of bacteria called Clostridium difficile in the gastrointestinal tract due to chronically decreased levels of gastric acid. Dr. Sahelian notes that C. difficile bacteria is the third most common cause of infectious diarrhea, particularly in patients over the age of 75. The bacteria cause inflammation and infection of the intestines that leads to recurring diarrhea.
Bone Fractures
Proton pump inhibitors can increase the risk of fractures in patients, particularly in post-menopausal women. A study published in the December 2006 issue of the "Journal of the American Medical Association" states that the long-term use of PPIs to treat symptoms of heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, can increase the number of Helicobacter pylori bacteria in the intestines. The higher prevalence of this bacteria can decrease calcium absorption by the body, resulting in decreased bone density over time. Hip fractures are the most common type of bone fractures due to brittle and weak bones in adults over the age of 50 years, as noted by the study published in the "Journal of the American Medical Association."
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that, in rare cases, long-term use of proton pump inhibitors may cause vitamin B12, or cobalamin, deficiencies. This may occur due to decreased absorption of the vitamin in the stomach. Symptoms may take many years to develop, and include weakness, numbness, anemia, irritability, headache, loss of appetite and personality changes. Low levels of vitamin B12 are linked to an increased risk of heart disease, brain disorders, birth defects and colon cancer.
