PPIs help to manage gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), prevent and treat stomach and duodenum ulcers, and also reduce the symptoms of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, a rare chronic condition that causes tumors linked to acid production. They may also support the treatment of some bacterial infections.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) might experience ongoing discomfort because a special valve meant to keep stomach acid and food particles from flowing back into the food pipe, or esophagus, doesn’t function properly. As a result, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus (food pipe) — a process known as reflux, which causes symptoms like heartburn, irritation, chest pain, and coughing. Occasional reflux is normal and may not even cause symptoms, but GERD is a chronic disease that causes more frequent reflux with more severe symptoms.
Peptic and Duodenal Ulcers
Ulcers can result when stomach acid damages the inner lining of the stomach. This may be as a complication of GERD or as a side effect of taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They can lead to dull, burning pain, bloating, heartburn, or nausea. PPIs can prevent ulcers if another treatment, such as NSAIDs, increases a person’s ulcer risk. They can also treat existing ulcers.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
This rare condition causes tumors called gastrinomas to develop in the digestive system. These tumors grow in the gut or pancreas and release a hormone called gastrin, which triggers the release of excess stomach acids. PPIs work against the acid-producing effects of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, giving the gut and stomach tissue space to heal and preventing ulcers.
H. pylori Infection
H. pylori is a bacteria that can cause digestive problems and nausea when it infects the stomach. Doctors treat H. pylori with antibiotics but might prescribe PPIs alongside it.
Read the full article here
