By Charlotte Smith

Copyright walesonline

A medical expert has issued a warning to anyone taking a widely used medication in Britain. Omeprazole , a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), is commonly prescribed to tackle issues including acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers. As the original and most widely prescribed PPI, omeprazole is issued millions of NHS prescriptions annually. Many patients consider it vital for managing acid-related digestive conditions. Latest figures reveal that 73 million NHS prescriptions for all PPIs were dispensed across England in 2022-23, with omeprazole ranking as one of the two most commonly prescribed drugs, reports the Mirror . Given the widespread use of omeprazole, a medical professional has now raised concerns about its usage. Dr Ana Pérez Ballesta, a GP holding a master’s degree in Emergency Medicine, warns that unnecessary consumption of the drug could cause more damage than benefit. She explained: “If you take it unnecessarily, it can hinder the absorption of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12”. Despite being among the most prescribed medicines in Britain and globally, Dr Ballesta believes omeprazole’s usage has extended far beyond its original purpose. She notes that many people now rely on it as a “stomach protector” before consuming large meals, alcohol, or when taking certain other medications occasionally. However, the health expert has issued a warning about the potential side effects of this habit when continued for years without medical supervision. She explains that omeprazole and other similar drugs, such as esomeprazole, pantoprazole, lansoprazole, and rabeprazole, belong to the group of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). “They reduce stomach acid and are useful, but not always,” she stated. “They are indicated for reflux or esophagitis, gastric or duodenal ulcers, Helicobacter pylori eradication, and chronic treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs if there is a high risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.” The issue arises when it’s taken as a preventative measure without a clear clinical cause. According to Dr Ballesta, “to avoid heartburn before a heavy meal or every time you’re prescribed an antibiotic or anti-inflammatory on a one-off basis” shouldn’t be a reason to consume it. In her words, this practice is widespread, even though the concept of “stomach protector” doesn’t really exist. Long-term, unnecessary use can have significant consequences. “If you take it for years without needing it, it can hinder the absorption of calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B12, increasing the risk of osteoporosis, anaemia from various causes, and digestive infections,” the specialist warned. She also highlighted that it has been connected to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, commonly referred to as SIBO. Dr Ballesta stressed that within her clinical practice, she has encountered countless patients who had been prescribed omeprazole for over ten years without proper medical reasoning. “In my practice, I have seen many people who have been taking it for 10 or 15 years without really knowing why, some of them already suffering from osteoporosis, anaemia that doesn’t respond to certain treatments, or digestive problems for which we can’t find another cause.” Prolonged omeprazole usage may heighten the likelihood of developing various health complications, including vitamin and mineral deficiencies, bone fractures, and renal problems. Whilst omeprazole is generally considered safe for brief periods, the potential dangers linked to extended use are concerning, particularly amongst elderly patients. These medications may elevate the risk of contracting a dangerous bacterial infection known as Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), which can trigger serious diarrhoea. Multiple research studies suggest a correlation between omeprazole and chronic adverse effects, though these remain observational in nature. This indicates they can demonstrate associations without definitively establishing that the medication directly causes these issues. It remains crucial to consult with a healthcare professional regarding continued long-term usage, as they can assess the advantages against potential hazards according to your medical needs. The doctor cautions people who use omeprazole that while it is a beneficial and potent medication when correctly prescribed, it shouldn’t be taken routinely or as a preventative measure without medical guidance. “Prolonged self-medication with this type of inhibitor can lead to complications that far outweigh the supposed benefits of taking it just in case,” she said. Abruptly discontinuing omeprazole isn’t dangerous, but it could result in a severe and temporary resurgence of acid reflux symptoms known as “rebound acid hypersecretion.” This occurs because the stomach begins producing excessive acid to compensate for the medication’s effects, which can prove more severe than the initial symptoms. This rebound phenomenon represents a typical withdrawal symptom, particularly if you’ve been taking the medication for more than several weeks. The encouraging aspect is that this typically doesn’t persist long, and the symptoms can be managed. According to the NHS, omeprazole is a medicine that reduces the amount of acid in your stomach. It’s used to treat conditions such as heartburn. You can buy some types from pharmacies and shops, but most types are only available with a prescription. A statement on the NHS website reads: “Do not take omeprazole for longer than two weeks if you bought it without a prescription.” It adds: “See a GP if your symptoms get worse or do not get better.” The NHS also states that omeprazole typically comes as tablets, capsules and liquid that you swallow. Some tablets can be dissolved in water. The amount to take and duration depends on the type of omeprazole you’re taking and your reason for taking it. Omeprazole is typically taken once or twice daily. Some people may only need to take it for a few days, while others may require it for several weeks, months or even years. Always refer to the packet or leaflet that accompanies your medication. If you’re unsure about how to take it or encounter any issues, consult a pharmacist or doctor. Like all medications, omeprazole can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects of omeprazole include: There are also potential serious side effects with omeprazole, but these are generally rare. Possible serious side effects of omeprazole include: The likelihood of experiencing serious side effects can increase if you take omeprazole for an extended period (a year or more).