First of all, you need to know what a proton pump inhibitor is. A proton pump inhibitor is a medication used to reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces. It is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux and peptic ulcers. The lining of the stomach has small pumps that produce acid to help in food digestion but sometimes these pumps can produce more acid than necessary and cause unwanted problems. Here we will go over the most serious side effects so you can decide whether taking this medication is a good idea or not.

• One of the worst side effects of the proton pump inhibitor is the terrible effect it can have on bone health. If you are an elderly person suffering from reflux disease and then get placed on a proton pump inhibitor, you are being put at unnecessary risk. The longer you take this medication the higher the risk is of breaking a hip or other bone.
• Proton pump inhibitors lower the secretions of acid in the stomach, therefore reducing the absorption of calcium into the blood. The less calcium the blood receives, the less calcium that is deposited in the bone to keep it strong. It is a vicious circle and as you can see, the outcome could be disastrous for someone who may already have depleted calcium in their system.
• Another very dangerous side effect of the proton pump inhibitor is the risk of bacterial infection or even pneumonia. The bacteria that is normally found in your digestive system is there to help break down food and aid in the digestive process. Once you start taking the proton pump inhibitor you risk becoming ill. The medication reduces stomach secretions, therefore making it impossible to keep the bacteria levels under control.

Pneumonia caused by the build up of these bacteria is the number one cause for concern and again will probably affect the elderly first.

• C. Difficile is another side effect that can cause not only a serious problem, but death. C. Difficile is a build up of bacteria that actually causes severe diarrhea, this is due to the proton pump inhibitor creating less stomach acid. This can lead to colon problems that can last over an extended period of time and has even been the cause of death in some patients.

It is up to you and your doctor to decide what is the best form of treatment. However, knowing the facts as described above will allow you to make an informative choice. You will be able to decide if the benefits outweigh the risks in your case.

Finally, if you decide that taking a proton pump inhibitor is your best choice, you should visit your doctor at the first sign of any illness. Frequent check ups and ongoing care will allow your doctor to notice any changes that may cause concern to your health.