Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a very commonly prescribed class of drugs for patients with acid peptic disorders. They have been generally regarded as safe and well tolerated. And, their long-term use is common. However, recently, there have been concerns about the use of PPIs, especially long-term use.
PPIs have been linked to increased risk of osteoporotic fractures, pneumonia, Clostridium difficile infection and rebound acid hypersecretion, especially in the older population. Long-term use may also affect patient compliance to the prescribed treatment. Evidence-based recommendations published in the May 2017 issue of Canadian Family Physician to help the physician decide when and how to safely stop the PPIs or reduce their dose, called ‘deprescribing’ PPIs. This can be done in three ways: • Reducing the dose by ‘intermittent’ use for a fixed duration; ‘on-demand’ use or using a…
