Debunking the Notion That Proton-Pump Inhibitors Cause Bacterial Overgrowth

A large, retrospective study using glucose hydrogen breath testing found no association.

Whether or not alterations in the gastric pH level increase susceptibility for enteric infections has long been debated. Proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use, which causes such alterations, has been linked with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), a condition associated with bloating, diarrhea, and malabsorption (Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2010; 8:504). However, findings across multiple studies are mixed.

To evaluate if the prevalence of SIBO differs between PPI users and nonusers, investigators retrospectively reviewed charts of 1191 consecutive patients who underwent glucose hydrogen breath testing (GHBT) for SIBO during a 6-year period at a single tertiary care center. Primary indications for GHBT included bloating, dyspepsia, or gas …

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors