Have you been on an acid blocker for an extended period of time? Long term use of certain medications to block stomach acid, called Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), may lead to health problems. Examples of these drugs include Prilosec, Prevacid, Aciphex, Protonix and Nexium.
Problems That May Develop Include:
- Possible B12 deficiency
- Magnesium deficiency
- Increased risk of Clostridia infection
- Increased risk of pneumonia
- Increased risk of hip, wrist and spine fracture
- Increased weight gain
- Severe reaction with Plavix
- Increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease
- Increased risk of death after hospitalization
What Does JAMA Recommend?
Because of these risks The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published an article including the statement, “Physicians need to use caution and balance benefits and harms in long-term prescription of high-dose PPIs.” JAMA Internal Medicine 2013.
How about you?
Do you need to take a more natural approach to your stomach problems? Natural, functional medicine assessment and therapies help you get to the causes of your acid reflux and help correct the problems. Don’t put your future health at risk!
About Dr. Pat
Speak Your Mind