The drugs popularly known as “gastric protectors” or “stomach protectors” are Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, Pantoprazole, Lansoprazole and Rabeprazole, which are part of the proton pump inhibitor family of drugs.
They are prescribed by medical professionals to reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach to prevent diseases caused by these acids, such as gastro-oesophageal reflux.
Their use has become widespread in recent years among many patients, who regularly take them erroneously believing they provide stomach protection.
When should Omeprazole be taken?
These drugs are only indicated in the case of diseases such as the treatment and prevention of gastric or duodenal ulcers, reflux diseases, and when taking medications that can cause ulcers (such as anti-inflammatory drugs, antiplatelet agents or anticoagulants) in patients with other risk factors such as age or history of ulcers.
They can also be prescribed if the patient takes medications that can cause ulcers, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, antiplatelet agents or anticoagulants. They may also be prescribed for patients with other risk factors, such as age or a history of ulcers.
It is the doctor who indicates whether a person should take them or not and for how long. It must be emphasised that taking other medications does not justify the use of Omeprazole or similar drugs. Heartburn is not a disease as such, so the use of these drugs may not be necessary.
What side effects do they have?
As they are popularly known as gastric protectors, these drugs can be falsely considered as safe or harmless. However, if they are taken when not prescribed, they will not provide any benefit. In fact, they can have negative side effects and contribute to polypharmacy.
Polypharmacy occurs when a person takes too many medications which can make it difficult to follow different treatments correctly, as well as increase the risk of interactions between drugs.
In general, proton pump inhibitors are safe and well-tolerated drugs if taken for a short time. However, if they are used continuously for years, they can have the following harmful effects:
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Bone fractures.
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Digestive infections, such as diarrhoea and intestinal inflammation.
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Lung infections, such as pneumonia.
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Problems absorbing vitamin B12.
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Decreased magnesium in the blood, which can cause tremors or heart arrhythmias.
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Kidney inflammation.
How to stop taking them
The stomach may have become accustomed to the effects of these medications and they should therefore not be stopped suddenly, as they can have a rebound effect with increased acid secretion. If they have been taken for a long time, withdrawal from them should be gradual.
How to avoid acidity and heartburn
The following changes in eating habits and lifestyle can be made to reduce acidity or heartburn:
- Consume less alcohol.
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Stop smoking.
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Avoid heavy meals.
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Avoid fatty foods and chocolate.
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Avoid carbonated or caffeinated drinks.
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Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
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Avoid clothing that is tight around the stomach.
To combat occasional heartburn, over-the-counter antacids can be obtained from the pharmacy, instead of proton pump inhibitors.
Information documented by:
Jose Miquel Sotoca and Marina Rovira, Medicines Department, Hospital Clínic Barcelona.
