Do GERD Meds Increase Cardiovascular Risk?

A study done in Britain reported results showing that taking proton pump inhibitors (Nexium, Prilosec, Prevacid etc) for a year or more dramatically increased the risk of hip fractures in people older than 50. The reason given was that while researches believe that the drugs do reduce acid in the stomach, they also make it more difficult for the body to absorb bone building calcium.

The drug companies responded that this was not proven and that one needed to carefully discuss with his/her prescribing physician the meds taken and the length of time taking them.

Then came more concerns: two clinical trials suggested that proton pump inhibitors used to treat GERD may increase cardiovascular risk. These cautions arose from a 14 year study comparing Prilosec (omeprazole) and surgery for patients with severe GERD and a shorter study of Nexium (esomeprazole) which is ongoing. The FDA reviewed the data and in September issued the following announcement:

After initial review and analysis of all the available data from the studies, the FDA's preliminary conclusion is that, collectively, these data do not suggest an increased risk of heart problems for patients treated with Prilosec or Nexium. And an "early communications" posted on the FDA website stated that the "FDA does not believe that healthcare providers or patients should change either their prescribing practices or their use of these products at this time."

The FDA continued to state that they have conferred with colleagues in the UK, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada, all of whose findings supported the FDA view. Both Prilosec and Nexium are made by Astra Zeneca who provided the data from the preliminary trials.

You, The Owner's Manual with Dr. Michael Roizen You the Owners Manual Radio Show with Dr. Mike Roizen

Dr. Roizen and his radio show co-host, Jim Graham recently reviewed MedSlant and gave us two thumbs up . Both liked the length, height, and support of MedSlant. Graham called MedSlant "absolutely perfect".

Acid Reflux Articles

Adele and Sid Camens are co-owners and inventors of the patented MedSlant™ Acid Reflux Wedge Pillow.  MedSlant is designed to stop stomach acid from burning the lining of your esophagus while you sleep and keeping you awake at night.  Adults, children and infants suffering from acid reflux, GERD, indigestion and heartburn can easily and economically get the good night's sleep that they deserve.  Email info@MedSlant.com for more information. Order your acid reflux wedge pillow today.