Heartburn Medication Causing Kidney Disease or Failure
There has been a study linking long term use of PPI acid reflux medication and kidney disease
PPI heartburn medication was never intended to be taken long term
The goal of taking heartburn medicine is to solve a problem, not create another more serious problem. Unfortunately, taking certain heart burn medications can cause an increase risk in kidney disease and failure.
Common PPI Heartburn or Acid Refulx Medications
The heart burn medications at issue are medications known as Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI). Common brands of PPI heart burn medication are:
- Prevacid
- Prilosec
- Nexium
- Protonix
- Aciphex
- Losec
- Pariet
There is a link between some heartburn medication and kidney problems
A recently published study looked at over 170,000 people who took a PPI acid reflux medication over 5 years compared to 20,000 people over the same time period who took H2 blockers acid reflux medication. Over the 5 year time period, it was found that the people who took the PPI acid reflux medication had a 28% increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and a 96% increase risk of kidney failure.
You Should Have Been Warned
Although this study is recent, the makers of PPI heartburn medication knew or should have known of these dangerous side effects when their products are prescribed for long periods of time.
You Need a Lawyer who Can Help
If you were prescribed or took over the counter PPI acid reflux medication and are now having kidney problems, we may be able to help. Please contact our firm and we will review your case at no charge.