The American Gastroenterology Association issued best practices on long term proton pump inhibitor use.
Daniel Freedberg, MD, of New York City-based New York Presbyterian Hospital and colleagues issued an AGA Clinical Practice Update in response to more providers using PPIs for GERD, Barrett's esophagus and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug bleeding prophylaxis treatments,
Here's what you need to know.
1. Dr. Freedberg discusses 10 specific applications for PPIs.
AGA suggests:
- Patients with GERD and acid-related complications should take the inhibitors for short-term healing and maintenance and long-term symptom control.
- Patients with uncomplicated GERD who respond to short-term PPIs should attempt to stop or reduce them. Patients who can't reduce them should consider an ambulatory esophageal pH/impedance monitoring before further committing to PPIs.
Click here for all 10.
2. Dr. Freedberg said when providers appropriately prescribe PPIs, the benefits likely outweigh the risks.
3. There is insufficient clinical evidence to recommend specific strategies for mitigating PPIs adverse effects.
The AGA also developed talking points to help patients better understand PPIs and to ensure they use them as directed. They're available here.