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In The News, Fall 2020: Acid Reflux Drugs Linked to Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Regular use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) – a class of drugs commonly taken to treat the symptoms of acid reflux, peptic ulcers, and indigestion – is associated with increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, according to new research published online in the journal Gut.
Based on data from 204,689 participants in the Nurses’ Health Study, Nurses Health Study II, and Health Professionals Follow-up Study, the research found that use of PPIs for up to two years is linked with a 5% increase in risk, while use for over two years is linked with a 26% increase. H2 blockers, another group of drugs that reduce production of stomach acid, showed a similar but less robust trend.
The researchers suggest that the link between PPI use and diabetes may have to do with the effect of these drugs on the gut microbiome, as previous studies indicate that regular use may alter the type and quantity of intestinal bacteria. They recommend that physicians employ caution when prescribing PPIs and screen patients who undergo long-term treatment for abnormal glucose levels and diabetes.
Sources: Regular use of acid reflux drugs linked to heightened risk of type 2 diabetes. BMJ, September 28, 2020. bmj.com/company/newsroom/regular-use-of-proton-pump-inhibitors-and-risk-of-type-2-diabetes-results-from-three-prospective-cohort-studies.
Yuan J, et al. Regular use of proton pump inhibitors and risk of type 2 diabetes: results from three prospective cohort studies. Gut Published Online First: September 28, 2020. doi: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-322557.
Published in the Price-Pottenger Journal of Health & Healing
Fall 2020 | Volume 44, Number 3
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