Certain Proton Pump Inhibitors Linked with Hip Fracture

A recent study conducted in the United Kingdom has discovered a link between use of certain proton pump inhibitors (heartburn drugs) and an increased potential of hip fracture in people over 50. Proton pump inhibitors are used to limit the amount of acid that is secreted in the stomach. The study determined that acid reduction can aid in heartburn relief while also having a negative effect on the body's ability to absorb calcium. Without an adequate intake of calcium, the bones weaken and become more susceptible to fracture or break.

Findings from the British study were published in a December 2006 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. It evaluated the medical records of more than 145,000 proton pump inhibitor patients throughout England with an average age of 77. It was concluded that patients taking these drugs for more than a one year period faced a 44 percent increased risk of suffering hip fracture.

Representatives from some of the most popular proton pump inhibitor manufacturers argue that the link between their heartburn drugs and hip fracture is nothing more than a "potential association." It is argued that doctors are responsible for monitoring the health and wellbeing of their patients to prevent issues related to insufficient bone density levels. Proton pump inhibitors have proven to be an effective treatment for chronic heartburn sufferers. It may simply be a matter of finding an adequate balance between use of the drugs and a calcium-rich diet.

Common Heartburn Drugs and Hip Fracture

The heartburn drugs in question are Nexium, Prevacid and Prilosec, three of the most popular proton pump inhibitors on the market. Although the link is not entirely clear, it is believed that people over 50 who take these drugs for a period longer than one year significantly increase their risk of suffering hip fracture. Men are viewed to be at a greater risk than women because women are more prone to a lifestyle that incorporates a calcium-rich diet, offsetting some of the concerns associated with proton pump inhibitors.

The Prevalence of Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors are some of the most commonly prescribed drugs because of the prevalence of heartburn in the United States. It is estimated that there are millions of people throughout the country currently taking Nexium, Prevacid or Prilosec. Nexium is in fact the second best selling drug in the world, with revenues exceeding $4.6 Billion in 2005. For people suffering from chronic heartburn, proton pump inhibitors like Nexium, Prilosec and Prevacid, represent one of the only means through which to experience relief from the bothersome heartburn effects.

Proton Pump Inhibitor Liabilities

Astra Zeneca is the pharmaceutical company responsible for the development and marketing of both Prilosec and Nexium. Although the drugs do not appear in danger of being recalled from the market, it is difficult to argue with the results of the British study. Patients in the study taking a proton pump inhibitor for more than a year were two-and-a-half times more likely to suffer hip fracture than nonusers.

Drug manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure that their products are safe for public consumption. Failure to adequately measure the serious nature of potential side effects and effectively notify patients of any risks is considered a negligent act and grounds for personal injury litigation. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of using Prilosec, Nexium or another type of proton pump inhibitor, contact the Law Offices of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz to get information regarding your rights as a victim. Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz boast some of the most experienced personal injury attorneys Pensacola, Florida has to offer. Call today at 850 916 7450 to get assistance now.