Issue 4/2024
Tzonev, R., Lilova, M.
Acibadem City Clinic University Hospital Tokuda – Sofia
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a group of drugs widely used in medical practice due to their efficacy and therapeutic advances. Developed for the treatment and prevention of acid-related conditions of the upper gastrointestinal tract, these agents are increasingly used for indications where their benefits are increasingly uncertain. It should not be overlooked that overprescribing of PPIs also leads to economic costs and contributes to polypharmacy. Increasing use is associated with the occurrence of adverse drug events. Over the past decade, there have been many studies evaluating the long-term adverse effects of PPIs such as calcium and magnesium malabsorption, vitamin B12 deficiency, Clostridium difficile colitis, pneumonia, dementia, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and others. It is crucial to realize the risk of long-term use and to properly assess the need for their administration – respectively in appropriate dosage and duration of intake. The following article provides an overview on the safety of PPI administration and presents the most common side effects.
Address for correspondence:
Tzonev, R.
Acibadem City Clinic Tokuda Hospital – Sofia
51B, Nikola Vaptsarov, Blvd.
1407, Sofia