What is Nexium?
Nexium is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). It is commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcer disease. By inhibiting gastric acid production in the stomach, Nexium helps reduce the amount of acid that flows back into the esophagus, alleviating symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation. This makes it an effective treatment for managing chronic acid-related conditions.
Risks Associated with Proton Pump Inhibitor Use
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Nexium have been linked to several health risks, including an increased risk of bone fractures, particularly hip fractures. This is primarily because PPIs can affect intestinal calcium absorption, leading to a decrease in bone mineral density over time. Additionally, long-term PPI use has been associated with a higher risk of osteoporosis-related fractures, including vertebral fractures. Beyond bone health, PPIs have also been connected to an increased risk of kidney disease, stomach cancer, pneumonia, and even dementia.
Nexium and proton pump inhibitors bone fractures warrant safety warnings.
Long-term use of a proton pump inhibitor such as Nexium may contribute to or aggravate osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become brittle and weak. Studies have explored the potential impacts of PPI use on bone mineral density, ultimately concluding that there is no substantial link between PPI use and reductions in bone density.
Observational studies, however, show an increased fracture risk associated with PPI use, emphasizing the importance of understanding this relationship in managing patient care. Mild stress such as bending over or coughing can cause a fracture. The FDA has determined that when taken for longer than the advised dosing period, Nexium can be the cause of painful bone fractures.
Findings also indicate an increased vertebral fracture risk among postmenopausal women using PPIs. Long-term proton pump inhibitor therapy has been associated with increased risks of hip fractures and osteoporosis, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and evaluation of patients on such therapies.
Risk of Hip Fracture
The risk of hip fracture is a significant concern for those using PPIs, especially older adults. Research indicates that long-term use of PPIs can increase the risk of hip fracture by up to 30%. This heightened risk is attributed to the decrease in bone mineral density caused by PPIs, as well as their potential to impair the body’s ability to absorb calcium and other essential nutrients for bone health. Women, particularly those with a history of osteoporosis or other major risk factors, are at an increased risk of hip fractures when using PPIs.
Nexium Side Effects
Nexium can cause a range of side effects, from common ones like headache, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain to more serious issues such as bone fractures, kidney disease, and stomach cancer. Additionally, Nexium can interact with other medications, including antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, and other proton pump inhibitors, which can heighten the risk of adverse effects. It’s crucial for users to be aware of these potential side effects and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.
Precautions and Contraindications
Nexium is contraindicated for patients with a known hypersensitivity to PPIs or any of their components. It should also be used with caution in individuals with a history of kidney disease, stomach cancer, or osteoporosis. Patients taking Nexium should be closely monitored for signs of adverse effects, such as bone fractures, kidney disease, and stomach cancer. Women, especially those with a history of osteoporosis or other major risk factors, should carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits of Nexium with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Limiting your Nexium use can be beneficial for your overall health and fracture risk.
Nexium can be prescribed or sold over the counter for the extended treatment of heartburn. They are approved for two weeks to four weeks of usage at a time. The FDA advises using Nexium 24-Hour three or fewer times per year. Usage longer or more frequently is when bone fractures begin occurring.
In addition to bone fractures, Nexium may create kidney problems. These kidney problems may be Acute Interstitial Nephritis, Acute Kidney Injury, or Chronic Kidney Disease. Some Nexium users even develop Renal Failure, which requires dialysis. Long-term use of Nexium may give rise to a dependency that makes acid reflux or GERD worse after stopping Nexium. GERD is the frequent backwash of stomach acid or stomach content into the esophagus.
Pairing Nexium with Calcium and Vitamin D can prevent bone fractures. If you have osteoporosis and GERD, talk to your doctor about a long-term solution for your acid reflux. Even when prescribed by a doctor, Nexium is only safe for use up to one month at a time. Studies cited by the FDA have shown that bone fractures and kidney problems become much more common when Nexium is used for years at a time.
Contact the Hollis Law Firm Today for Concerns About a Nexium Lawsuit
We are here to answer your questions about a Nexium lawsuit and fight for you. If you or your loved one has taken Nexium and suffered Acute Interstitial Nephritis, Acute Kidney Injury, Chronic Kidney Disease, or even Renal Failure, call us at (800) 701-3672 today.
