Proton Pump Inhibitors and Osteoporosis
Acid Reflux Medication Linked to Increased Risk of Hip Fractures
Aug 19, 2008
Long term use of proton pump inhibitors to treat acid reflex and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) may increase the risk of osteoporosis and hip fractures, according to a Canadian study published in 2008. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) block the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
The study, which included 63,000 Canadians over the age of fifty, studied prescription records and medical records amongst other factors. 15,300 participants had a history of osteoporosis fractures, including spine, wrist and hip fractures.
Study participants who had histories of osteoporosis-related fractures were almost twice as likely to have used proton pump inhibitors for at least seven years when compared to other participants.
62 percent of study participants who had hip fractures had used PPIs for at least five years. Short term use of PPIs did not seem to increase the risk of fractures.
Do PPIs Cause Fractures?
It’s important to note that the study does not prove PPIs actually cause fractures, only that there seems to be a link between the acid reflux medication and osteoporosis fractures. The study speculated that by blocking hydrochloric acid in the stomach, PPIs might impair the body’s ability to absorb calcium, leading to osteoporosis. Further study is needed to prove or disprove this theory.
Choices for Acid Reflux Patients
Although an exact relationship between long term PPI use and hip fractures remains unproven, people taking proton pump inhibitors may wish to discuss the matter with their doctor. Common PPI brands include:
- Aciphex
- Prilosec
- Nexium
- Prevacid
- Protonix
The risk of hip fractures and other osteoporosis-related fractures must be balanced against the benefits of PPIs. Proton pump inhibitors such as Aciphex can provide relief for symptoms of acid reflux, GERD, and ulcers. Some people find PPIs to be the only GERD treatment that works for them.
Concerned people, particularly those who take PPIs and have, or are at risk of, osteoporosis, may wish to discuss the possibility of less powerful GERD medication. Histamine blockers (also called H2 anatgonists) can also be used to treat acid reflux and related conditions. Histamine blockers are reduce acid less effectively than proton pump inhibitors, but have not been linked to long term fracture risk.
If you are currently taking PPIs and are concerned about possible osteoporosis risk, do not stop taking your medication until you have talked to your doctor. Symptoms of acid reflux and GERD can return very quickly when people stop taking proton pump inhibitors.
Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute in any way for care and treatment by a qualified health professional.
Resources
CBS News. (11 August, 2008). Acid Reflux Pills Linked to Hip Fractures
WebMD. (11 August, 2008). Acid Reflux Drugs May Up Fractures
