Adverse Effects of Proton Pump Inhibitors-Evidence and Plausibility

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Therapeutics
• Gastroenterology
• Drug Safety

Background:

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) demonstrate widespread clinical use.
• Concerns regarding PPI overuse and associated adverse events are prevalent.
• The causal link between PPI use and reported side effects remains uncertain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize epidemiological and mechanistic evidence on the adverse effects of PPI use.
• To evaluate the potential causal relationship between PPIs and adverse outcomes.
• To highlight potentially underestimated mechanistic data in assessing PPI safety.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of epidemiological studies.
• Analysis of experimental and mechanistic studies investigating PPI effects.
• Integration of evidence from diverse study designs to assess causality.

Main Results:

• Associations between PPI use and adverse effects are frequently reported in observational studies.
• Mechanistic and experimental data offer insights into biological plausibility for certain adverse effects.
• A combined evidence approach may strengthen the assessment of PPI-related risks.

Conclusions:

• The review underscores the need to consider both epidemiological and mechanistic data for a thorough understanding of PPI adverse effects.
• Further investigation into the causal links between PPIs and specific side effects is warranted.
• Careful consideration of PPI use, balancing benefits against potential risks, is crucial.