Proton pump inhibitors, often called PPIs, are among the most commonly used medications for treating heartburn and acid reflux. Many people know them by brand names such as Prilosec, Nexium, and Prevacid.
These drugs reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach, helping relieve burning pain in the chest, sour taste in the mouth, and other uncomfortable symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD. For millions of people, PPIs make daily life more comfortable and allow them to eat and sleep without constant discomfort.
Although these medications are effective, new research from the University of California San Diego suggests that long-term use may carry risks, especially for the kidneys.
The study was led by scientist Ruben Abagyan and published in the journal Scientific Reports. Researchers examined a very large database called the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System, which collects reports of side effects linked to medications.
The team analyzed more than 10 million medical records and focused on people who took PPIs without using any other drugs at the same time. This group included about 43,000 individuals.
To better understand the risks, the researchers compared them with about 8,000 people who used a different type of heartburn medicine called histamine-2 receptor blockers, such as Pepcid, but no other medications.
The findings were concerning. Among people who took only PPIs, about 5.6 percent reported kidney-related problems. In comparison, only 0.7 percent of those taking histamine-2 blockers experienced similar issues.
Reports of chronic kidney disease were far higher among PPI users. Serious conditions such as sudden kidney injury and end-stage kidney disease were also more frequently reported in this group.
Kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste from the blood, balancing fluids, and maintaining healthy levels of minerals in the body. Damage to the kidneys can lead to fatigue, swelling, difficulty concentrating, and dangerous changes in blood chemistry. In severe cases, patients may need dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive.
Researchers also found that people taking PPIs had more reports of electrolyte imbalances. These imbalances can affect the heart, muscles, and nerves, leading to weakness, irregular heartbeat, or confusion. Because many people take PPIs for years, sometimes without regular medical supervision, these risks are especially important to understand.
This is not the first time concerns have been raised about long-term PPI use. Earlier research has suggested possible links to other health problems, including liver disease and bone fractures. Together, these findings highlight the importance of regularly reviewing medications that people may take for long periods.
Doctors emphasize that PPIs can still be very helpful when used correctly. For people with severe GERD, stomach ulcers, or other serious conditions, the benefits may outweigh the risks. However, they recommend using the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary whenever possible.
Patients are advised not to stop taking prescribed medication suddenly, as this can worsen symptoms. Instead, they should talk with their doctor about whether the drug is still needed or if other options might work.
Lifestyle changes such as eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, losing excess weight, and not lying down immediately after eating can often reduce heartburn. In some cases, switching to a different type of medication may also help.
This research serves as a reminder that even widely used drugs can have unexpected effects. Careful monitoring, regular checkups, and open communication between patients and healthcare providers are essential for safe treatment.
As scientists continue to study these medications, new guidelines may help ensure that people receive the benefits of treatment while minimizing potential harm.
If you care about kidney health, please read studies about how to protect your kidneys from diabetes, and drinking coffee could help reduce risk of kidney injury.
For more information about kidney health, please see recent studies about foods that may prevent recurrence of kidney stones, and eating nuts linked to lower risk of chronic kidney disease and death.
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