[Proton pump inhibitors and infection risk]
E Palencia-Herrejón1, B Sánchez, I Escobar
1Servicio de Medicina Intensiva, Hospital Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain. palenciah@gmail.com
Summary
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used but may increase infection risk. Studies link PPI use to Clostridium difficile infections and pneumonia, necessitating careful clinical consideration.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are frequently prescribed, often outside approved indications.
- Gastric acid suppression by PPIs may impact immune function and susceptibility to infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence linking PPI use to an increased risk of infections.
- To explore potential pathogenic mechanisms involved in PPI-associated infections.
- To provide recommendations for clinical practice and future research.
Main Methods:
- Review of observational studies and experimental data.
- Analysis of potential mechanisms of PPIs on the immune system and infection risk.
Main Results:
- Observational studies show an association between PPI use and increased risk of gastrointestinal infections, including Clostridium difficile.
- PPI use is linked to higher rates of community-acquired and nosocomial pneumonia.
- Experimental data suggest PPIs can promote infection development.
Conclusions:
- The use of proton pump inhibitors is associated with an increased risk of serious infections.
- Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms and guide clinical practice regarding PPI prescribing.
- Clinicians should carefully consider the risks and benefits of PPI therapy, especially in vulnerable populations.
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