Are Proton Pump Inhibitors Safe?

Previous studies suggest proton pump inhibitors, which dramatically reduce stomach acid, have many adverse effects. A recent report in the journal Gastroenterology indicate otherwise:

In a large placebo-controlled randomized trial, we found that pantoprazole is not associated with any adverse event when used for 3 years, with the possible exception of an increased risk of enteric [intestinal] infections.

Source: Safety of Proton Pump Inhibitors Based on a Large, Multi-year, Randomized Trial of Patients Receiving Rivaroxaban or Aspirin. – PubMed – NCBI

I still suspect there are good reasons our stomachs produce lots of acid, like killing bacteria in our food and water.

Steve Parker, M.D.

PS: I wonder who funded this study. PPI manufacturers?

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