The NHS has issued an important warning for individuals using a common indigestion medication, urging them to limit its use to the shortest duration necessary to prevent potential long-term side effects.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most frequently prescribed medications for treating indigestion, heartburn, and acid reflux. These drugs work by significantly decreasing the production of stomach acid, thanks to their ability to block the stomach’s acid-producing enzymes. This reduction in acid helps alleviate heartburn and acid reflux symptoms while offering protection against certain medications.

According to a report by the Mirror, the NHS highlights: “PPIs are a type of medicine which reduces the amount of acid your stomach makes. Having less acid can help ease the symptoms of indigestion. Indigestion is also known as heartburn, dyspepsia, or acid reflux. There are a number of PPIs available, for example, Omeprazole and Lansoprazole.”

The NHS strongly recommends that patients adhere to their doctor’s guidance when using these medications. While the duration of treatment may vary based on the severity of the condition, the NHS advises against prolonged use of PPIs beyond what is necessary.

Typically, PPIs are prescribed for a period ranging from four to eight weeks to address indigestion symptoms, as per NHS guidelines. They emphasize that using these medications for the shortest time possible is crucial to avoid long-term side effects.

Extended use of PPIs can increase the risk of infections in the bowel, such as Clostridium Difficile, and in the lungs, including pneumonia. Moreover, long-term use can impair the absorption of vital nutrients like magnesium, vitamin B12, and calcium, potentially leading to deficiencies.

People who use PPIs for a long time are also at increased risk of breaking bones in the hip, writs and spine. Meanwhile, some studies show there could be a link to a higher risk of chronic kidney disease.

However, some patients do require the long-term use of PPIs. They will usually be given varying doses by their GP as time goes on.

The NHS warns: “If indigestion does not go away after two to four weeks, you are vomiting for no obvious reason, have blood in your vomit, find it painful or difficult to swallow, are losing weight for no obvious reason or notice dark or black stool, contact your GP surgery as soon as you can, especially if you are 55 years or older.”

For anyone stopping PPI, or coming off them completely, the NHS advises: “Your dose of PPI may be changed by your GP practice to ensure that you are on the lowest dose possible for the least amount of time.”