Omeprazole is a popular drug in the UK that works as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and is often used to manage problems such as acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers
A medic has issued a stark warning to anyone who regularly takes a common type of medication. Omeprazole, a widely used drug in the UK, functions as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and is frequently prescribed to manage issues such as acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers.
As the first and most commonly prescribed PPI, millions of NHS prescriptions are handed out annually. It’s viewed by many as a crucial medication for a multitude of patients grappling with acid-related stomach issues.
The latest figures reveal that in England, 73 million NHS prescriptions for all PPIs were dispensed during 2022-23, with omeprazole being one of the two most commonly prescribed drugs. Given the vast number of people taking or being prescribed omeprazole, a doctor has sounded a cautionary note to anyone using it.
Dr Ana Pérez Ballesta, a family doctor with a master’s degree in Emergency Medicine, warns that unnecessary use of the medication could be causing more harm than good. She stated: “If you take it unnecessarily, it can hinder the absorption of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12”.
Omeprazole is one of the most frequently prescribed medications in the UK and globally, but Dr Ballesta cautions that she believes its usage has extended beyond its original purpose. She notes that many individuals use it as a “stomach protector” against heavy meals, alcohol, or the occasional consumption of certain medications, reports the Mirror.
However, a health expert has warned that this habit can lead to side effects if continued for years without medical supervision. She explained that omeprazole and other similar drugs, such as esomeprazole, pantoprazole, lansoprazole, and rabeprazole, are part of the group known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
“They reduce stomach acid and are useful, but not always,” she stated. “They are indicated for reflux or esophagitis, gastric or duodenal ulcers, Helicobacter pylori eradication, and chronic treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs if there is a high risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.”
The issue arises when it’s taken as a preventative measure without a clear clinical cause. According to Dr Ballesta, “to avoid heartburn before a heavy meal or every time you’re prescribed an antibiotic or anti-inflammatory on a one-off basis” shouldn’t be a reason to consume it.
In her view, this practice is widespread, even though the concept of a “stomach protector” doesn’t really exist.
Unnecessary prolonged use can have significant consequences. “If you take it for years without needing it, it can hinder the absorption of calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B12, increasing the risk of osteoporosis, anaemia from various causes, and digestive infections,” the specialist cautioned.
She also pointed out that it has been connected to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, also known as SIBO. Dr Ballesta highlighted that in her practice, she has encountered countless patients who had been taking omeprazole for more than a decade without a clear justification.
“In my practice, I have seen many people who have been taking it for 10 or 15 years without really knowing why, some of them already suffering from osteoporosis, anaemia that doesn’t respond to certain treatments, or digestive problems for which we can’t find another cause.”
Extended omeprazole use can heighten the likelihood of developing certain health complications, including deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, fractured bones, and kidney troubles. Whilst omeprazole is generally safe for brief periods, the dangers linked with prolonged use are concerning, particularly for elderly individuals.
The medications can boost the risk of contracting a dangerous bacterial infection called Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), which can trigger severe diarrhoea.
Multiple studies suggest a link between omeprazole and lasting adverse effects, though these are observational.
This means they can demonstrate associations without definitively establishing that the medication is the direct culprit. It’s crucial to consult with a doctor about continuing long-term usage, as they can help assess the advantages against the potential dangers based on your individual health needs.
The medic is cautioning individuals who use omeprazole that whilst it remains a beneficial and potent medication when correctly prescribed, it shouldn’t be taken regularly or as a precautionary measure without medical guidance. “Extended self-treatment with this category of inhibitor can result in complications that significantly exceed the perceived advantages of taking it as a safeguard,” she explained.
Abruptly ceasing omeprazole isn’t dangerous, but it could trigger a severe and short-term resurgence of acid reflux symptoms known as “rebound acid hypersecretion.”
This occurs because the stomach begins producing excessive acid to compensate for the medication’s impact, which can prove more severe than the initial symptoms. This rebound phenomenon is a common withdrawal symptom, particularly if you’ve been taking the medication for several weeks or more.
The encouraging news is that this typically doesn’t persist for long, and the symptoms can be managed.
What does the NHS say?
A statement on the NHS website reads: “Do not take omeprazole for longer than two weeks if you bought it without a prescription.”
It adds: “See a GP if your symptoms get worse or do not get better.”
The NHS also states that omeprazole typically comes as tablets, capsules and liquid that you swallow. Some tablets can be dissolved in water.
How much to take and for how long depends on the type of omeprazole you’re taking and why you’re taking it. It’s typically administered once or twice daily.
Some individuals may only require it for a few days, while others may need to take it for several weeks, months or even years. Always refer to the packet or leaflet that accompanies your medication.
If you’re unsure about how to take it or encounter any issues in doing so, seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor.
Like all medications, omeprazole can lead to side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of omeprazole include:.
Omeprazole can occasionally result in serious side effects, but these are generally rare. Potential serious side effects of omeprazole include:.
The likelihood of experiencing serious side effects can increase if you take omeprazole for an extended period (a year or more).
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