Proton pump inhibitors: Risks of long-term use

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Gastroenterology
• Nephrology

Background:

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are frequently prescribed, with increasing long-term use.
• Concerns exist regarding PPI overprescription and use for inappropriate conditions.
• Potential adverse effects of long-term PPI use warrant thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent literature on adverse effects associated with long-term proton pump inhibitor treatment.
• To discuss potential biological mechanisms underlying these adverse effects.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent scientific literature.
• Analysis of studies investigating PPIs' long-term side effects.
• Discussion of proposed biological mechanisms for adverse events.

Main Results:

• Evidence links long-term PPI use to various adverse effects, including drug interactions, infections, nutrient malabsorption, kidney damage, and dementia.
• While biological mechanisms are often plausible, clinical evidence for some adverse effects remains weak.
• Recent research highlights kidney damage and cognitive decline as significant concerns.

Conclusions:

• Long-term proton pump inhibitor therapy is associated with a growing list of potential adverse effects.
• Further research is needed to strengthen the clinical evidence and elucidate mechanisms of PPI-related complications.
• Careful consideration of PPI risks versus benefits is crucial for long-term patient management.