Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs 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.

PPIs are available in pill form and are taken orally.

The dose varies depending on which PPI your doctor has prescribed. They are typically taken once or twice a day with food.

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.

Proton-pump inhibitors take effect in as soon as half an hour, but it may take anywhere from 24 hours to four days to see full effects of this medication.

Do not take PPIs if you have had an allergic reaction to the medication.

PPIs are generally well tolerated. In rare cases, some patients may experience abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, headache or a rash. Long-term use has been associated with bone fractures (osteoporosis), chronic kidney disease, and pneumonia.

To reduce your risk of pneumonia and infectious diarrhea, make sure to maintain good hand hygiene and limit contact with sick individuals.

To reduce your risk of osteoporosis, you can supplement with calcium and vitamin D. Calcium citrate is preferred in PPI-related calcium deficiencies since other calcium require stomach acid for absorption. Talk with your pharmacist with respect to selecting the type of calcium and vitamin D supplement and the dose you need.

Routine blood tests are not required while you are taking proton-pump inhibitors.

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