No PPI ... No Problem?

December 28, 2014

Day 10: No PPI ... No Problem? Facts and Tips about Heartburn and GERD Drugs By Kristen Dore, PharmD

PPIs are powerful medications that provide symptom relief and promote healing from acid-related conditions when taken consistently. How long you take a PPI may depend on your digestive problem and symptoms. When some people stop taking PPIs, their symptoms get worse, possibly due to increased acid production. Does this rebound of symptoms lead to a dependency on PPIs? Not everyone is going to take a PPI for the same amount of time. Your doctor can help determine how long treatment is appropriate for you. For example, people who are taking PPIs for an ulcer may be taken off the medication once the ulcer is healed — which may take up to several weeks. GERD may need to be treated longer with a PPI, depending on the person's symptoms. Some people may use PPIs to heal their esophagus, and are then able to stop. However, if the person's symptoms persist, longer therapy may be needed to maintain the healing of their esophagus. Your proton pump inhibitor has taken care of your digestive problems. But what happens when you stop taking it? »

Next Newsletter: Pharmacist Check-In: Top 10 Fast Facts About PPIs