Proton Pump Inhibitors: Their Misuse, Overuse, And Abuse

Abstract

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) are a relatively new class of potent gastric acid-suppressing agents that are used in the treatment of multiple gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. As with any medication it is important that PPIs should only be prescribed when appropriate, and mainly for FDA-approved indications. The improper use of proton pump inhibitors can lead to unwanted adverse effects and increase the chances for drug induced disease, such as gastric cancer. There is some recent evidence indicating that improper use of PPI is rising. Findings from our literature review and clearly suggest that PPI's are being abused through overuse, and the various unintentional consequences of their overuse; not only to the individuals taking the medications, but also the additional cost incurred by the healthcare system.