Have you been taking a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for a long period of time to treat heartburn? Using PPIs like Nexium, Prevacid or Prilosec for prolonged periods of time is associated with a higher risk of damage to the kidneys, according to a study from Kidney International.
Researchers analyzed the medical records of 125,596 people who took PPI medications over a five-year period. They discovered that PPI users had a higher risk of acute injury or chronic kidney disease than people who took H2 blocker medications, such as Pepcid and Zantac.
This is particularly alarming because about 15 million Americans take PPIs and chronic kidney disease does not produce symptoms until it is too late to treat.
PPIs are used to treat heartburn, which occurs when acid from the stomach travels to the esophagus. PPIs work by minimizing the volume of acid a patient’s stomach produces, which helps prevent acid backwash.
Alternatives To Proton Pump Inhibitors
An alternative to using PPIs to reduce heartburn is to avoid tobacco and make dietary changes like avoiding fatty foods, overeating and alcohol, which can all weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve that prevents acid backwash.
When heartburn symptoms flare up, eat a piece of bread or drink milk. If symptoms persist after an hour, take Pepto Bismol. If that does not work, try an H2 blocker like Zantac.
If changing your diet, managing your symptoms or taking an H2 blocker does not work, talk to your doctor about taking a PPI.
If you have suffered from acute or chronic kidney disease after taking a PPI medication, you might be able to pursue legal action.
Contact the defective drug attorneys at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy for a complimentary case review. If your claim is valid, we will work to obtain compensation for your pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical expenses. We do not charge legal fees unless you receive fair compensation.