Table of Contents
- What are Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)?
- Severe Kidney Problems Linked to Proton Pump Inhibitors Prilosec and Nexium
- Study Linking Prilosec and Nexium to Acute Kidney Injury
- Types of Kidney Damage from PPIs
- Profits Prevent Warning on Chronic Kidney Disease
- Alternatives to PPIs
- FDA Warnings and Updates
- Getting Help for Kidney Damage from PPIs
- Have You Suffered Kidney Failure After Taking Nexium or Prilosec?
What are Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)?
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are a class of medications designed to reduce the production of stomach acid. They achieve this by blocking the enzyme system known as the proton pump, which is located in the stomach lining and responsible for acid production. PPIs are commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. While these medications are effective in alleviating symptoms of acid-related conditions, they have been linked to an increased risk of kidney damage, including chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute kidney injury (AKI).
Severe Kidney Problems Linked to Proton Pump Inhibitors Prilosec and Nexium
Nexium and Prilosec are used to treat conditions such as chronic heartburn. Both Nexium and Prilosec have topped the nationwide sales charts over the last 20 years. Consumers can obtain Nexium and Prilosec by prescription or by simply buying them over the counter. The FDA-approved Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), like Nexium and Prilosec, are for use up to four weeks at a time. However, many people have taken Prilosec or Nexium every day for decades.
Extended use of Prilosec and Nexium can cause severe kidney problems, such as Acute Interstitial Nephritis (AIN). Extended use of Prilosec and Nexium can also lead to acute kidney failure, a condition where the kidneys suddenly lose their ability to filter waste from the blood.
Dr. Al-Aly found that PPI users were more likely than people on other heartburn medications to develop kidney problems, such as chronic kidney disease, renal failure, or kidney failure.
Study Linking Prilosec and Nexium to Acute Kidney Injury
Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly is a kidney specialist and researcher on a current study regarding PPI use and kidney problems. Dr. Al-Aly found that PPI users were more likely than people on other heartburn medications to develop kidney problems, such as chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
The study also examined the chronic kidney disease evolution among PPI users, highlighting the progression of renal complications over time. Dr. Al-Aly recommends only using Prilosec or Nexium when absolutely necessary and for the shortest time possible.
The study revealed chronic kidney disease in 15% of PPI users, as opposed to 11% in those who took another heartburn medication. Even more alarming, the study noted that end-stage kidney failure rates were twice as high among PPI users. The study also noted that these outcomes were observed even in the absence of intervening acute kidney injury, underscoring the inherent risks of PPI use.
More studies are underway to evaluate the risk of kidney problems caused by Nexium and Prilosec. Previous studies have linked Prilosec and Nexium use with Acute Interstitial Nephritis and Acute Kidney Injury. Prolonged use of PPIs may also worsen heartburn or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), making it harder for users to stop using the drug.
Types of Kidney Damage from PPIs
PPIs have been associated with several types of kidney damage, including:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Long-term use of PPIs has been linked to an increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease, a condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function.
- Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): PPIs have been associated with an increased risk of acute kidney injury, a condition where the kidneys suddenly stop working properly.
- Acute Interstitial Nephritis (AIN): PPIs have been linked to an increased risk of acute interstitial nephritis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the kidneys.
- End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): Prolonged use of PPIs has been linked to an increased risk of end-stage renal disease, a condition where the kidneys are no longer able to function properly.
Profits Prevent Warning on Chronic Kidney Disease
AstraZeneca, the manufacturer of Nexium and Prilosec, has made $80-$100 billion dollars in revenue in the past twelve years. The company modified their formula to maintain a longer patent and make versions of the drug that wouldn’t be available as a generic. The company created Nexium when Prilosec went generic.
The company then made Nexium 24 hours before regular Nexium went generic. Never did the company warn of the potential severe kidney problems associated with their proton pump inhibitor drugs.
Alternatives to PPIs
While PPIs are effective in alleviating symptoms of acid-related conditions, there are alternative treatments available. Some alternatives include:
- Histamine-2 (H2) Blockers: H2 blockers, such as ranitidine and famotidine, can help reduce acid production in the stomach.
- Antacids: Antacids, such as Tums and Rolaids, can help neutralize stomach acid.
- Lifestyle Changes: Making lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding trigger foods, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help alleviate symptoms of acid-related conditions.
FDA Warnings and Updates
The FDA has issued several warnings and updates regarding the use of PPIs and the risk of kidney damage. In 2014, the FDA required the manufacturers of PPIs to add a warning to the label about the risk of acute interstitial nephritis. In 2016, the FDA issued a warning about the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) associated with long-term use of PPIs.
Getting Help for Kidney Damage from PPIs
If you have been taking PPIs and are concerned about the risk of kidney damage, it is essential to talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment and monitor your kidney function. If you have already experienced kidney damage from PPIs, there are several options available to help manage your condition, including:
- Dialysis: Dialysis is a treatment that uses a machine to filter waste products from the blood.
- Kidney Transplant: A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure where a healthy kidney is transplanted into the body.
- Medications: There are several medications available to help manage kidney damage, including medications to reduce proteinuria and slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Have You Suffered Kidney Failure After Taking Nexium or Prilosec?
If you or a loved one has experienced kidney damage after taking Nexium, Prilosec, or other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), it’s important to understand your legal options. At Hollis Law Firm, we understand the complexities involved in cases where prescription drugs have caused significant harm. With 15 years of experience, I take pride in not only understanding the legal aspects of your case but also the science behind it. This combination allows us to stay ahead in cases involving dangerous drugs like PPIs.
At Hollis Law Firm, we focus on fighting for individuals who have been wronged by harmful medical products. If you’ve suffered from kidney issues linked to PPIs, such as acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease, I may be able to help you seek justice. For more information on how we can assist with your case, please contact us at (800) 701-3672 or through our contact form.
