Medscape featured proton pump inhibitors on a list of 11 drugs physicians should consider deprescribing.
Douglas Paauw, MD, a Seattle-based University of Washington School of Medicine professor, compiled the list.
Here's what you should know:
1. Dr. Paauw said the risk of reduced calcium, B12 and thyroid hormone adsorption paired with the increased risk of acute and chronic kidney injury as well as increased Clostridium difficile infection is why he included PPIs on the list.
2. He also said mortality rates may be increased because of PPI use.
3. He recognized that some patients need PPIs long term. But for patients prescribed PPIs for conditions like stress ulcer prophylaxis or for unsourceable abdominal pain, "it makes sense to try taking the patient off the PPI," he said.
4. Dr. Paauw stated the data on the benefits and harms of PPIs is still inconclusive.
For the other drugs on the list, click here.