The most widely-spread drugs from increased acidity of the stomach can lead to bone loss, says a new study.

Among patients who took proton pump inhibitors for more than a year, the risk of developing a hip fracture was significantly increased.

The mechanism of this complication lies in the fact that they alter the absorption of calcium, which strengthens bone tissue and prevents fractures.

When analyzing the health of a group of people over the age of 50 who take the drug for more than a year, the risk of developing a fracture of the femoral neck exceeds that of the control group by 44%. When taken for a longer time, the risk rises even more.

Fracture of the femoral neck is one of the most serious injuries in the elderly. According to statistics, 1 in 5 people who have received a hip fracture die within the next 12 months.

The way out of this situation can be the appointment of the least effective doses of drugs and the use of additional mineral-vitamin complexes that strengthen bone tissue.

However, some gastroenterologists say that the study was incorrectly compiled, and most patients took omeprazole and other proton pump inhibitors for increased acidity due to taking painkillers for arthritis or arthrosis.

This means that the risk of fracture of the femoral neck in this group is initially overestimated and without taking medications.

Both doctors and patients who independently buy the drug should remember about the possible risk and prescribe the lowest doses and duration of the course, if possible, such recommendations are given by the researchers.

Medicinform. Net.