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.

Results from a new study published April 12, 2008 in the Canadian Medical Association Journal have found a conclusive link between the prolonged use of powerful proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec, Nexium and Prevacid, and a higher risk of bone fracture.

The Canadian study evaluated 16,000 patients aged 50 and over who had suffered hip fractures, along with a control group of 47,000 patients aged 50 and over with no history of bone fractures. The two groups were assessed based on proton pump inhibitor use.

People taking proton pump inhibitors for five years are two-times more likely to suffer bone fracture. People taking proton pump inhibitors for more than seven years are four-times more likely to suffer bone fractures.

Although the Canadian study does not find a causative relationship between proton pump inhibitor use and bone fracture, it nonetheless does verify a relationship between the two. It has been hypothesized that the bone fracture could be related to calcium deficiency. Antacids neutralize powerful acids in the stomach. Hydrochloric acid is believed to play an integral role in the body’s absorption of calcium, a mineral necessary in bone health. Prolonged use of antacids could inhibit hydrochloric acid production, in turn inhibiting calcium absorption.

Proton pump inhibitor users should speak with their doctor to discuss their options. Oftentimes, the powerful antacids are prescribed inappropriately when a more basic option is available.

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

Drug manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and efficacy of their products before marketing them for public consumption. Failure to do so is considered negligent and grounds for pharmaceutical litigation. The law offices of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz boast some of the most experienced defective drug attorneys Pensacola, FL has to offer. They have successfully represented and obtained substantial compensation for a number of patients who have been harmed by drugs. Contact AWKO law today at (888) 255-AWKO (2956) to get more information about your rights as a Proton Pump Inhibitor injury victim.