Use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been associated with an increase in the risk of fractures. The FDA now requires that the labels of all prescription PPIs include a warning about an increased risk of fractures with long-term use.

CLINICAL STUDIES — A meta-analysis of 11 observational studies found that use of PPIs was associated with a modest increase in hip, spine and any-site fractures. The risk of hip fracture among patients taking a PPI was higher than in patients with a similar medical history who were not taking a PPI (RR 1.30, 95% CI 1.19-1.43). Fracture risk was similar with short-term (<1 year) and longer use.1

A prospective study that followed a cohort of 9,423 Canadian patients for 10 years found, after controlling for multiple risk factors, an association between PPI use and a shorter time to a first ... more      

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