Randomized Trial Supports Long-Term Safety of Proton-Pump Inhibitors

Previously reported excess risks for serious adverse events were not apparent, except for enteric infection.

In recent years, observational studies have suggested associations between use of proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) and multiple adverse outcomes, including pneumonia, hip fracture, dementia, enteric infections (including Clostridium difficile), cerebrovascular events, chronic renal failure, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and mortality. However, these studies are limited by inherent methodological weaknesses resulting in possible residual confounding and other biases.

In a large prospective study, the safety of PPI use (pantoprazole, 40 mg once daily) was compared with that of placebo in 17,600 older patients (age, ≥65; 78% men; 23% smokers) with stable coronary or peripheral artery disease. During a median follow-up of …

Reviewing Author

John R. Saltzman, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardIterative Scopes

Editorial BoardsGastrointestinal Endoscopy; UpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology (Trustee)

OtherVice President of Medical Affairs, 1Globe Health Institute