FDA experts say that proton pump inhibitors are prescribed by a doctor for six months. Without prescription, these drugs can be used no more than 14 consecutive days and not more than 3 times a year. But American doctors say that sometimes they take much longer.
According to Dr. Lacy, for prescription PPIs there is no established maximum duration of treatment - it is determined by a doctor depending on the situation. Some patients take them for years. But he stipulates that the lower the dose and the shorter the duration of treatment, the better.
"True, I have patients who drink proton pump inhibitors a day for more than 10 years, and they have no significant side effects," Lacy said..
What else are the inhibitors of the proton pump?.
In 2012, the FDA warned that prescription PPIs can significantly reduce the level of magnesium in the blood, which leads to muscle spasms and irregular heartbeats. In the same year, the agency stated that PPIs increase the risk of infection of Clostridium difficile with severe diarrhea.
"We know that taking PPI is associated with an increased risk of bone fractures and intestinal infections. Patients are afraid to take these drugs for many reasons, but I think they are generally safe, "says Dr. Paul Buckley III, chief surgeon of Heartburn and Acid Reflux Center at Baylor Scott & White Healthcare (Round Rock, Texas, USA).
What should I look for if I already take proton pump inhibitors?.
According to Dr. Lacy, ideally your doctor during each visit should ask about unusual events.
"It's hard to say what you need to pay attention first of all. One side effect, severe diarrhea, can talk about Clostridium difficile infection, so in this case you should definitely consult a doctor. Some people who have just started taking IPP (the first three weeks) may have a watery stool. If it does not go away for 5-7 days, you should contact your doctor. Sometimes a replacement for another drug helps, "- says Lacy.
How to change the way of life during treatment with proton pump inhibitors?.
Dr. Lacey believes that lifestyle changes in this case are really necessary:.
The most important thing is to follow the recommended diet of your doctor.
Do not overeat at night and reduce the fat content in the dinner. Do not eat fried and fast food.
Try to normalize the body weight: your BMI should be no higher than 27-30.
"I tell my patients that they should eat at least 4 hours before going to bed. This gives time to digest it normally. Fast food "on the go" can disrupt digestion and trigger heartburn.
Also, avoid certain foods that cause heartburn (wine, tomatoes, mint), "adds Dr. Buckley.
Are there any new drugs that are safer and more effective than PPI?.
Yes, such drugs are being actively developed today. They act on the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach in a different way, but at present these drugs are in the early stages of testing, and in the pharmaceutical market they may not appear soon.
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