Article on Medication (Prilosec)

I came across this article on MSN: http://health.msn.com/health-topics/articlepage.aspx?cp-docu mentid=100205363>1=31036 I have been curious why some doctors prescribe Prilosec OTC and others don't:

Prilosec and Nexium

Heartburn can be uncomfortable, but heart attacks can be fatal, which is why the FDA has investigated a suspected link between cardiac trouble and the acid-reflux remedies Prilosec and Nexium. In December 2007, the agency concluded that there was no "likely" connection. Translation: The scientific jury is still out. In the meantime, there are other reasons to be concerned. Because Prilosec and Nexium are proton-pump inhibitors, they are both incredibly effective at stopping acid production in the stomach — perhaps too effective.

A lack of acid may raise your risk of pneumonia, because the same stuff that makes your chest feel as if it's burning also kills incoming bacteria and viruses. You may also have an elevated risk of bone loss — in the less acidic environment, certain forms of calcium may not be absorbed effectively during digestion. "The risk of a fracture has been estimated to be over 40 percent higher in patients who use these drugs long-term, and the risk clearly increases with duration of therapy," says Dr. Rodgers.

Hi Angela, I want to thank you for your post.  Ever since my surgery I have had to be on Prilosec OTC, for Acid reflux.  I have been taking this medication everyday for over 11 months now.  I have an appointment with my PCP in July, and I was going to ask her then, am I going to have to take this for the rest of my life, and now that I read your post, I really need to know more about what this medication is doing to me.  I really want to thank you again, I hope am going to be alright.

hi angela thanks for your post.  but what is the alternative if one suffers from heartburn?  i have had issues with this from before the surgery. i need to read more about this subject for sure. enjoyed your pictures the other night at support group hugs, jacki

My gastro doctor and I discussed these risks, but I am prone to ulcers now, so I have to weigh the pros and cons.  Since I've already had a perforated ulcer, I know that I will need to be on  nexium for life.  I can only hope that my new active, healthy lifestyle keeps some of these potential issues at bay.