You Are Here: Home > Treatment > Medication > Medication Reference Guide

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Drug Name
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Brand Name(s)
Esomeprazole (Nexium®), Lansoprazole (Prevacid®), Omeprazole (Losec®), Pantoprazole (Pantoloc®, Tecta®), Rabeprazole (Pariet®) Vimovo® is a combination of the NSAID naproxen with esomeprazole in one t

Drug Class
NSAIDs and COXIBs

PPIs are a class of medications that work by stopping your stomach from producing ulcer-causing acid. When taken with an NSAID, PPIs reduce the risk of developing ulcers and promote ulcer healing.

What are PPIs?

PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors) are a class of medications that work by stopping your stomach from producing ulcer-causing acid. Some examples of PPIs are dexlansoprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole. When taken with an NSAID, PPIs reduce the risk of developing ulcers and promote ulcer healing.

They also can reduce symptoms of stomach upset, such as nausea, heartburn and indigestion.
How are PPIs administered?

PPIs are available in pill form and are taken orally.
What is the typical dose and when do I take it?

The dose varies depending on which PPI your doctor has prescribed. They are typically taken once or twice a day.
How do they work?

PPIs work by blocking the proton pump that is responsible for acid secretion in the stomach. By reducing stomach acid, PPIs can reduce your risk of developing ulcers and promote ulcer healing.
When should I not take a PPI and call my doctor?

Do not take PPIs if you have had an allergic reaction to the medication.
What are the side effects of PPIs?

PPIs are generally well tolerated. In rare cases, some patients may experience nausea/diarrhea, headache or a rash.
How should I store PPIs?

Store this medication at room temperature (15 to 30 degrees Celsius) and keep it out of reach of children.

This information was written in November 2017, with expert advice from:

Jason Kielly, B.Sc. (pharm.), Pharm.D.
Assistant Professor, School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland
Clinical Pharmacist, Rheumatic Health Program, Eastern Health

This information was last updated in December 2021 by:

Alan Low, B.Sc. (pharm.), Pharm. D., ACPR, FCSHP, CCD, RPh
Clinical Associate Professor, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UBC
Co-Founder and Executive Director, Medicines Access Coalition – BC
Primary Care Pharmacist, VancouverGo Back to Drug Index

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Share