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Heartburn is a condition that millions of Americans suffer from on a daily basis. To get relief, they often turn to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Prilosec. New studies indicate these medications may cause an increase in stroke risk.
At an American Heart Association meeting last week, Danish researchers assessed the risk of stroke in patients who were taking medications like Prilosec and Nexium.
The results were an alarming 21% increase in strokes. The greater the dose used, the higher the risk became. The researchers also found that H2 blockers like Pepsid and Zantac did not have an elevated risk.
These studies come after earlier research revealed that PPI inhibitors have an increased risk of heart attack as well.
It must be clear that these studies are observational studies only. This makes it impossible to distinguish whether the proton pump inhibitor increases risk or if people who experience severe heartburn or ulcers are just at higher risk over time.
H2 antagonists are relatively weak when compared to PPI drugs. Patients who can use them and receive good results are likely not the same patients who need PPIs to gain relief. If you have just regular, occasional heartburn, you might benefit from lifestyle changes such as weight loss, avoiding eating before bedtime, quitting smoking, and eating smaller meals. You might find that your need for PPI inhibitors diminishes or you might find that you are able to obtain relief with H2 antagonists.
If you believe that you have had a stroke or a cardiac event related to taking a PPIs such as Prilosec or Nexium, you may be entitled to compensation. Let the “Strong Arm” attorneys at the law offices of John Foy & Associates fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today.
