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Severe systemic adverse reaction to proton pump inhibitors in an infant

Emanuele Baldassarre1, Mario Mendoza Sagaon, Alessandra Ferrarini

  • 1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Ospedale San Giovanni, Bellinzona, Switzerland.

Pediatric Pulmonology
|May 1, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole may cause respiratory distress in infants. Discontinuing these acid-reducing medications can rapidly resolve symptoms such as wheezing and chest retraction.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux is common in infants.
  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are frequently prescribed for acid reduction.

Observation:

  • An infant experienced respiratory distress, including chest retraction and wheezing.
  • Facial edema was also noted in conjunction with these respiratory symptoms.

Findings:

  • The infant's symptoms emerged after administration of omeprazole and esomeprazole.
  • Withdrawal of the proton pump inhibitor led to a dramatic resolution of respiratory distress and edema.

Implications:

  • This case suggests a potential adverse effect of PPIs on infant respiration.
  • Clinicians should consider PPI-induced respiratory symptoms in infants with unexplained distress.
  • Further investigation into PPIs' respiratory effects in pediatric populations is warranted.

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