Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Zegerid, Protonix: Increased risk of fractures.
Do you use Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Zegerid, Protonix, Aciphex, Prilosec OTC, Zegerid OTC, or Prevacid 24HR
These heartburn medications could increase the risk of hip, wrist, and spine fractures in high doses or with long-term use, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
The so-called “proton pump inhibitors” are used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, stomach and small intestine ulcers, and inflammation of the esophagus, along with frequent heartburn.
“Epidemiology studies suggest a possible increased risk of bone fractures with the use of proton pump inhibitors for one year or longer, or at high doses,” said Dr. Joyce Korvick, deputy director for safety in FDA’s Division of Gastroenterology Products.
“Because these products are used by a great number of people, it’s important for the public to be aware of this possible increased risk. When prescribing proton pump inhibitors, health care professionals should consider whether a lower dose or shorter duration of therapy would adequately treat the patient’s condition.”
The product labeling will be changed to describe the possible increased risk, the FDA said.
The FDA’s reviewed several studies that reported an increased risk of hip, wrist and spine fractures in people using proton pump inhibitors. The warnings and precaution sections of prescription labels and the drug facts label on over-the-counter medications will address the findings, the agency said.