For, there is an emerging body of evidence that suggests side effects, including kidney damage, on long-term use of these antacids. Two of the most recent research indicating the association between kidney damage and PPIs have been published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology .
The first research followed 10,482 participants from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study (ARIC). Researchers found that PPI users were between 20% and 50% more likely to develop chronic kidney disease (CKD) than non PPIusers.
These users were also more often Caucasians, obese, and on anti-hypertensive medication. The second study, led by Dr Pradeep Arora of SUNY-Buffalo, arrived at similar conclusions. Experts said the suggested links could be because of reduction in levels of magnesium in the blood due to PPIs, but further research is required to prove the same.
According to Dr Anoop Misra, chairman, Fortis C-Doc Center of Excellence for Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Endocrinology , PPIs are the most effective drugs for acidity and related disorders. Research conducted in the past have hinted at the possibility of its side effects, including kidney damage. But there is no evidence to show the cause-and-effect relationship, he said.
Stomach acid is natural. It is considered a valuable chemical contributor to orderly digestion. However, excessive acidity often causes heartburn and development of stomach ulcers.
PPIs have been used for more than four decades to treat the condition, says Dr Anil Arora, director, Institute of Liver, Gastroenterology and Panceaticobiliary Sciences at Sir Ganga Ram hospital. Unlike common antacids and H2 blockers, which neutralize the acid or partially block it, PPIs act by suppressing production totally .It gets bound to the acid pr-oducing cell in stomach lining so it is more effective. But side-effects cannot be ruled out, he said.
Director of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, Dr S K Sarin, added that research has suggested increased risk of infection and osteoporosis in patients on PPIs for years.
Source: Times of India
BDST: 1643 HRS, NOV- 03, 2015
Edited by: Sharmina Islam, Lifestyle Editor
