PPI Heartburn Medication Associated With Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
These Drugs Are Generally Safe, But Over-Prescription And Widespread OTC Availability Can Result In Excess Ingestion, Leading To Adverse Effects
The mainstay treatment for heartburn is based on PPIs, which are drugs that decrease the production of stomach acid. Among these are omeprazole, lansoprazole, and esomeprazole, which are the most prescribed drugs and OTC medication. However, recent research has linked these drugs to the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria on the gastrointestinal system. Prior studies have also linked excessive ingestion of this medication to an increase of the risk of heart and kidney disease, and also a deficiency of calcium, magnesium, and B12 vitamin. Even though these drugs are generally safe, in many cases they are overprescribed by doctors, and patients take doses for long periods of time. This situation is worsened by the fact that they can be purchased as OTC medication at drugstores without a medical prescription. More details click here.
