Proton Pump Inhibitors : The Controversies to Consider

Abstract

Heartburn is ailing the masses. By one estimate. 20% of the Western population experiences acid reflux at least once a week and shelling out buckets of cash S25.6 billion worldwide in 2008 to alleviate those hot, sour. acidic pains in the chest. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) am one of the most commonly prescribed classes of medications in the primary care setting and are considered a major advance in the treatment of acid-peptic diseases. Since the introduction of omeprazok in 1989. several other PPIs have become available in combating various acid-peptic disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced gastropathy. The intravenous form of pantoprazole is now available. and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the newest dexlansoprazole in 2012. Although H2 blockers are less expensive thanPPIs, but PPIs provide superior acidsuppression, healing rates and symptom relief.Therefore, PPIs may be more cost-effectivethan H2 blockers. especially in patients withmore severe acid-peptic disorders, because oftheir lower and less frequent dosingrequirements and their comparatively shorterduration of required therapy.