Widely Prescribed Heartburn Drugs Pose Long-Term Risks, Especially for Seniors
PARIS – Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), commonly used to treat gastroesophageal reflux, heartburn, and prevent ulcers, are facing increased scrutiny due to potential long-term health risks, particularly for individuals over 60. While effective in the short term, prolonged use of thes medications can lead to nutritional deficiencies, digestive problems, and even serious complications like osteoporosis and kidney damage, according to health professionals.
The rising prevalence of these conditions is linked to modern lifestyles – diets high in fat and sugar, stress, and consumption of coffee, alcohol, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen, which can weaken the stomach lining.
“Used occasionally, they are safe. But in the long term, they can lead to nutritional deficiencies, persistent digestive disorders, and sometiems more serious complications, particularly in the elderly,” warns Arnaud Cinturel, a pharmacist in Isneauville, France. PPIs disrupt the absorption of essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Altering stomach pH also impacts the digestive microbiota, potentially leading to bacterial imbalances, diarrhea, and, in rare cases, kidney damage.
France’s Social Security system is now closely monitoring PPI prescriptions due to the significant financial burden of their widespread use. While doctors retain the freedom to prescribe based on medical justification, discussions are underway to supervise long-term use and prevent unneeded prolonged treatments.
