Complications of Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that occurs when reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus causes symptoms and/or complications. The prevalence of GERD in Western societies has been estimated at 30%, making it one of the most commonly encountered disorders in primary care. The spectrum of GERD includes typical symptoms of esophageal reflux (heartburn and/or regurgitation); esophageal injury (erosive esophagitis; stricture; Barrett esophagus; and, rarely, adenocarcinoma); and extraesophageal symptoms, such as hoarseness and chronic cough. Proper diagnosis and treatment of GERD includes symptom control, exclusion of other disorders, avoiding overuse of medications and invasive testing, and minimizing complications.

Associations of proton pump inhibitors with susceptibility to influenza, pneumonia, and COVID-19: Evidence from a large population-based cohort study

Background

Adverse effects of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have raised wide concerns. The association of PPIs with influenza is unexplored, while that with pneumonia or COVID-19 remains controversial. Our study aims to evaluate whether PPI use increases the risks of these respiratory infections.

Methods

The current study included 160,923 eligible participants at baseline who completed questionnaires on medication use, which included PPI or histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2RA), from the UK Biobank. Cox proportional hazards regression and propensity score-matching analyses were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Comparisons with H2RA users were tested. PPI use was associated with increased risks of developing influenza (HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.12-1.56) and pneumonia (hazard ratio [HR] 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-1.59). In contrast, the risk of COVID-19 infection was not significant with regular PPI use (HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.99-1.17), while the risks of severe COVID-19 (HR 1.19. 95% CI 1.11-1.27) and mortality (HR 1.37. 95% CI 1.29-1.46) were increased. However, when compared with H2RA users, PPI users were associated with a higher risk of influenza (HR 1.74, 95% CI 1.19-2.54), but the risks with pneumonia or COVID-19-related outcomes were not evident.

Conclusions

PPI users are associated with increased risks of influenza, pneumonia, as well as COVID-19 severity and mortality compared to non-users, while the effects on pneumonia or COVID-19-related outcomes under PPI use were attenuated when compared to the use of H2RAs. Appropriate use of PPIs based on comprehensive evaluation is required.

Funding

This work is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (82171698, 82170561, 81300279, 81741067, 82100238), the Program for High-level Foreign Expert Introduction of China (G2022030047L), the Natural Science Foundation for Distinguished Young Scholars of Guangdong Province (2021B1515020003), the Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation (2022A1515012081), the Foreign Distinguished Teacher Program of Guangdong Science and Technology Department (KD0120220129), the Climbing Program of Introduced Talents and High-level Hospital Construction Project of Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (DFJH201923, DFJH201803, KJ012019099, KJ012021143, KY012021183), and in part by VA Clinical Merit and ASGE clinical research funds (FWL).

Peptic ulcer disease

Annual prevalence estimates of peptic ulcer disease range between 0·12% and 1·5%. Peptic ulcer disease is usually attributable to Helicobacter pylori infection, intake of some medications (such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications), or being critically ill (stress-related), or it can be idiopathic. The clinical presentation is usually uncomplicated, with peptic ulcer disease management based on eradicating H pylori if present, the use of acid-suppressing medications-most often proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)-or addressing complications, such as with early endoscopy and high-dose PPIs for peptic ulcer bleeding. Special considerations apply to patients on antiplatelet and antithrombotic agents. H pylori treatment has evolved, with the choice of regimen dictated by local antibiotic resistance patterns. Indications for primary and secondary prophylaxis vary across societies; most suggest PPIs for patients at highest risk of developing a peptic ulcer, its complications, or its recurrence. Additional research areas include the use of potassium-competitive acid blockers and H pylori vaccination; the optimal approach for patients at risk of stress ulcer bleeding requires more robust determinations of optimal patient selection and treatment selection, if any. Appropriate continuation of PPI use outweighs most possible side-effects if given for approved indications, while de-prescribing should be trialled when a definitive indication is no longer present.

Long-Term Proton Pump Inhibitor-Acid Suppressive Treatment Can Cause Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) Patients

Whether the long-term treatment of patients with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) with different diseases [GERD, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES), etc.] can result in vitamin B12 (VB12) deficiency is controversial. In this study, in 175 patients undergoing long-term ZES treatment with anti-acid therapies, drug-induced control acid secretory rates were correlated with the presence/absence of VB12 deficiency, determined by assessing serum VB12 levels, measurements of VB12 body stores (blood methylmalonic acid (MMA) and total homocysteine[tHYC]), and other features of ZES. After a mean of 10.2 yrs. of any acid treatment (5.6 yrs. with PPIs), 21% had VB12 deficiency with significantly lower serum and body VB12 levels (p < 0.0001). The presence of VB12 deficiency did not correlate with any feature of ZES but was associated with a 12-fold lower acid control rate, a 2-fold higher acid control pH (6.4 vs. 3.7), and acid control secretory rates below those required for the activation of pepsin (pH > 3.5). Over a 5-yr period, the patients with VB12 deficiency had a higher rate of achlorhydria (73% vs. 24%) and a lower rate of normal acid secretion (0% vs. 49%). In conclusion, in ZES patients, chronic long-term PPI treatment results in marked acid hyposecretion, resulting in decreased serum VB12 levels and decreased VB12-body stores, which can result in VB12 deficiency.

Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Bone Health in Patients With Rheumatic Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use on bone mineral density (BMD) and bone microarchitecture as measured by the trabecular bone score (TBS) in patients with inflammatory rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (iRMDs).

METHODS

Cross-sectional data from a prospective single-center cohort (2015 to 2022) of patients with iRMDs were used to evaluate 3 co-primary outcomes: BMD of the left femoral neck and the lumbar spine (as T-scores) and the TBS. Inverse probability weighting adjusted for numerous confounders including age, sex, body mass index, current and cumulative glucocorticoid (GC) dose, C-reactive protein levels, disability, and others. Analyses were based on general linear models, following a prespecified statistical analysis plan.

RESULTS

The study included 1495 patients (75% women; mean age, 62.6±13.1 years; 49% and 63% with regular PPI and GC use, respectively). The PPI users had lower BMD at both spine (adjusted contrast -0.25; 95% CI, -0.47 to -0.04; P=.02) and femoral neck (-0.17 [-0.35 to 0.01]; P=.07). Differences between PPI users and nonusers were statistically significant only in patients concurrently using GCs at more than 7.5 mg/d prednisone equivalent. The TBS was similar in PPI users and nonusers (adjusted contrast, 0.00 [-0.04 to 0.04]; P=.97).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that PPIs lead to a loss of BMD rather than an impairment of bone microarchitecture in patients with iRMDs. The negative association between PPI use and BMD appears to be dependent on concurrent GC use. Clinicians should carefully review the indication for PPI use in patients with iRMDs, especially in those receiving higher dose GCs.

Physicians' perceptions and awareness of adverse effects of proton pump inhibitors and impact on prescribing patterns

Background: Heightened scrutiny surrounds the inappropriate use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) due to concerns regarding potential serious adverse effects (AEs). Understanding the impact of these AEs on real-world practice is crucial. This study aimed to assess physicians' perceptions, experiences, awareness, and beliefs regarding published data on potential AEs associated with PPIs. Additionally, it sought to determine alterations in PPI prescribing patterns resulting from these AEs, explore attitudes towards PPI use, and ascertain recommendations for PPI use in clinical scenarios with varying levels of risk for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Method: A quantitative, cross-sectional study utilized a self-administered questionnaire, inviting 282 physicians from 55 primary healthcare centers and 334 internal medicine physicians from seven governmental hospitals to participate. Results: With a response rate of 87.8% (541/616), 74% (95% CI: 70.2-77.7) of respondents were somewhat or very familiar with published data on PPI AEs. Among the familiar, 69.5% (CI: 65.2-73.5) had somewhat or very much changed their PPI prescribing patterns. General concerns about AEs when prescribing PPIs were reported by 62% (CI: 56.7-65.1). Respondents displayed awareness of a median (IQR) of 15 (9) different AEs associated with long-term PPI use, including osteoporosis or osteopenia (90.2%), hypomagnesemia (81.5%), vitamin B12 deficiency (80.6%), and bone fracture (80.0%). Respondents believed that PPIs elevate the risk for a median (IQR) of 7 (6) different AEs, with osteoporosis or osteopenia (81.8%) being the most common, followed by hypomagnesemia (67.1%), and vitamin B12 deficiency (62.3%). The most common strategies for PPI de-escalation were PPI discontinuation (61%) and using PPI on-demand/as-needed (57.9%). The majority (87.4%) agreed or strongly agreed that PPI overuse is prevalent in Kuwait and 78.2% emphasized the necessity for large-scale education on rational PPI use for medical staff and the public. In the UGIB prevention scenarios, 43.6% recommended appropriately the PPI discontinuation in the minimal-risk scenario, while 56% recommended appropriately the PPI continuation in the high-risk scenario. Associations and comparative analyses revealed predictors influencing physicians' practices and attitudes toward PPI usage. Conclusion: These findings lay the foundation for future research and targeted interventions aimed at optimizing PPI prescribing practices and ensuring patient safety.

Continuous co-prescription of rebamipide prevents upper gastrointestinal bleeding in NSAID use for orthopaedic conditions: A nested case-control study using the LIFE Study database

BACKGROUND

Rebamipide has been widely co-prescribed with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in Japan for decades. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of rebamipide in preventing upper gastrointestinal bleeding in new users of NSAIDs without risk factors of NSAID-induced ulcers other than age.

METHODS

A nested case-control study was conducted using medical claims data of 1.66 million inhabitants of 17 municipalities participating in Japan's Longevity Improvement & Fair Evidence study. The cohort entry (t0) corresponded to a new user of NSAIDs for osteoarthritis or low back pain. Patients with risk factors of NSAID-induced ulcers other than age were excluded. Cases were defined as patients who underwent gastroscopy for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (occurrence date was defined as index date). A maximum of 10 controls were selected from non-cases at the index date of each case by matching sex, age, follow-up time, and type and dosage of NSAIDs. Exposure to rebamipide was defined as prescription status from t0 to index date: Non-user (rebamipide was not co-prescribed during the follow-up period), Continuous-user (rebamipide was co-prescribed from t0 with the same number of tablets as NSAIDs), and Irregular-user (neither Non-user nor Continuous-user). Conditional logistic regression analysis was conducted to estimate each category's odds ratio compared to non-users.

FINDINGS

Of 67,561 individuals who met the inclusion criteria, 215 cases and 1,516 controls were selected. Compared with that of Non-users, the odds ratios and 95% confidence interval were 0.65 (0.44-0.96) for Continuous-users and 2.57 (1.73-3.81) for Irregular-users.

CONCLUSIONS

Continuous co-prescription of rebamipide significantly reduced the risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in an Asian cohort of new users of NSAIDs with osteoarthritis or low back pain without risk factors other than age.

Effects of proton pump inhibitors on inflammatory bowel disease: An updated review

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is believed to be caused by various factors, including abnormalities in disease susceptibility genes, environmental factors, immune factors, and intestinal bacteria. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the primary drugs used to treat acid-related diseases. They are also commonly prescribed to patients with IBD. Recent studies have suggested a potential association between the use of certain medications, such as PPIs, and the occurrence and progression of IBD. In this review, we summarize the potential impact of PPIs on IBD and analyze the underlying mechanisms. Our findings may provide insights for conducting further investigations into the effects of PPIs on IBD and serve as an important reminder for physicians to exercise caution when prescribing PPIs to patients with IBD.

Effect of long-term proton pump inhibitors on phosphocalcium metabolism and bone mineral density

Aim: Although Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are well-tolerated, their long-term use may be associated with decreased bone mass. Methods: This is a case-control study including patients treated with PPIs (>1 year) and control subjects who have not received PPIs treatment. Results: A total of 90 patients and 90 matched controls were included. PPIs use was associated with hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia. Vitamin D3 deficiency and hyperparathyroidism were associated with PPIs use. Long-term PPIs use was significantly associated with decreased bone density. Risk factors of decreased bone mineral density (BMD) included age >50 years, menopause, lack of sun exposure, double PPIs dose, daily intake, post-meal intake and association with a mucoprotective agent. Conclusion: Our results highlight the risk of decreased BMD in patients on long-term PPIs treatment.

Diagnosis and management in Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome: first international consensus statement

Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (RTS) is an archetypical genetic syndrome that is characterised by intellectual disability, well-defined facial features, distal limb anomalies and atypical growth, among numerous other signs and symptoms. It is caused by variants in either of two genes (CREBBP, EP300) which encode for the proteins CBP and p300, which both have a function in transcription regulation and histone acetylation. As a group of international experts and national support groups dedicated to the syndrome, we realised that marked heterogeneity currently exists in clinical and molecular diagnostic approaches and care practices in various parts of the world. Here, we outline a series of recommendations that document the consensus of a group of international experts on clinical diagnostic criteria for types of RTS (RTS1: CREBBP; RTS2: EP300), molecular investigations, long-term management of various particular physical and behavioural issues and care planning. The recommendations as presented here will need to be evaluated for improvements to allow for continued optimisation of diagnostics and care.

Awareness of Proton Pump Inhibitor Adverse Events and Treatment Pattern Change According to Physician Practice: A National Questionnaire Study in Korea

Although adverse events of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have been reported, there are few studies on physicians' perceptions. We aimed to investigate physicians' awareness of PPI-related adverse events and changes in treatment patterns according to their practice. We conducted an online survey of physicians using a 15-item questionnaire. The survey queried respondents' demographic information, PPI prescription patterns, perceptions, and concerns on the reported PPI-related adverse events. Concerns regarding the adverse events of PPI were assessed by dividing them into possibilities and medical causality. Of the 450 respondents, 430 were specialists, and 232 were gastroenterologists. A total of 87.8% of the respondents were generally or well aware of the adverse effects of PPI, 29.1% considered side effects when prescribing PPI, and 14.6% explained them to patients. Specialists were more aware of the side effects of PPI than general practitioners (p = 0.005), and gastroenterologists were more aware of the side effects of PPI than non-gastroenterologists (p < 0.001). However, gastroenterologists explained less to patients (p = 0.001) and preferred to reduce the dose of PPI rather than discontinue it. The adverse events that were recognized as having the highest probability of occurrence and strongest association with PPI use were bone diseases, Clostridium difficile infection, gastrointestinal infection, pneumonia, and interactions with anti-thrombotic drugs. Physicians' awareness of PPI-related adverse events and treatment patterns differed significantly according to their positions and practice. Although a number of adverse events of PPIs were reported, physicians seem to accept their significance differently according to their specialty and practice patterns.

Investigating the causal relationship of gut microbiota with GERD and BE: a bidirectional mendelian randomization

BACKGROUND

Gut microbiota(GM) have been proven associated with lots of gastrointestinal diseases, but its causal relationship with Gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD) and Barrett's esophagus(BE) hasn't been explored. We aimed to uncover the causal relation between GM and GERD/BE and potential mediators by utilizing Mendelian Randomization(MR) analysis.

METHODS

Summary statistics of GM(comprising 301 bacteria taxa and 205 metabolism pathways) were extracted from MiBioGen Consortium(N = 18,340) and Dutch Microbiome Project(N = 7,738), GERD and BE from a multitrait meta-analysis(NGERD=602,604, NBE=56,429). Bidirectional two-sample MR analysis and linkage disequilibrium score regression(LDSC) were used to explore the genetic correlation between GM and GERD/BE. Mediation MR analysis was performed for the risk factors of GERD/BE, including Body mass index(BMI), weight, type 2 diabetes, major depressive disorder(MDD), smoking initiation, alcohol consumption, and dietary intake(including carbohydrate, sugar, fat, protein intake), to detect the potential mediators between GM and GERD/BE.

RESULTS

11 bacterial taxa and 13 metabolism pathways were found associated with GERD, and 18 taxa and 5 pathways exhibited causal relationship with BE. Mediation MR analysis suggested weight and BMI played a crucial role in these relationships. LDSC identified 1 taxon and 4 metabolism pathways related to GERD, and 1 taxon related to BE. Specie Faecalibacterium prausnitzii had a suggestive impact on both GERD(OR = 1.087, 95%CI = 1.01-1.17) and BE(OR = 1.388, 95%CI = 1.03-1.86) and LDSC had determined their correlation. Reverse MR indicated that BE impacted 10 taxa and 4 pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

This study established a causal link between gut microbiota and GERD/BE, and identified the probable mediators. It offers new insights into the role of gut microbiota in the development and progression of GERD and BE in the host.

Prevalence and factors associated with inappropriate continuation of stress ulcer prophylaxis at discharge

Stress ulcer prophylaxis is started in the critical care unit to decrease the risk of upper gastrointestinal ulcers in critically ill persons and to decrease mortality caused by stress ulcer complications. Unfortunately, the drugs are often continued after recovery through discharge, paving the way for unnecessary polypharmacy.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study including patients admitted to the adult critical care unit and started on the stress ulcer prophylaxis with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) or histamine receptor 2 blocker (H2 blocker) with an aim to determine the prevalence of inappropriate continuation at discharge and associated factors.

RESULT

3200 people were initiated on stress ulcer prophylaxis, and the medication was continued in 1666 patients upon discharge. Indication for long-term use was not found in 744 of 1666, with a 44% prevalence of inappropriate continuation. A statistically significant association was found with the following risk factors: discharge disposition (home vs other medical facilities, p=0.002), overall length of stay (more than 10 days vs less than or equal to 10 days, p<0.0001), mechanical ventilator use (p<0.001), number of days on a mechanical ventilator (more than 2 days vs less than or equal to 2 days, p<0.001) and class of stress ulcer prophylaxis drug used (H2 blocker vs PPI, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of inappropriate continuation was found to be higher than prior studies. Given the risk of unnecessary medication intake and the associated healthcare cost, a web-based quality improvement initiative is being considered.

Blockade of aryl hydrocarbon receptor restricts omeprazole-induced chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the 16th leading cause of mortality worldwide. Clinical studies have raised that long-term use of omeprazole (OME) is associated with the morbidity of CKD. OME is commonly used in clinical practice to treat peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease. However, the mechanism underlying renal failure following OME treatment remains mostly unknown and the rodent model of OME-induced CKD is yet to be established. We described the process of renal injury after exposure to OME in mice; the early renal injury markers were increased in renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs). And after long-term OME treatment, the OME-induced CKD mice model was established. Herein, aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) translocation appeared after exposure to OME in HK-2 cells. Then for both in vivo and in vitro, we found that Ahr-knockout (KO) and AHR small interfering RNA (siRNA) substantially alleviated the OME-induced renal function impairment and tubular cell damage. Furthermore, our data demonstrate that antagonists of AHR and CYP1A1 could attenuate OME-induced tubular cell impairment in HK-2 cells. Taken together, these data indicate that OME induces CKD through the activation of the AHR-CYP axis in RTECs. Our findings suggest that blocking the AHR-CYP1A1 pathway acts as a potential strategy for the treatment of CKD caused by OME. KEY MESSAGES: We provide an omeprazole-induced chronic kidney disease (CKD) mice model. AHR activation and translocation process was involved in renal tubular damage and promoted the occurrence of CKD. The process of omeprazole nephrotoxicity can be ameliorated by blockade of the AHR-CYP1A1 axis.

Pharmacologic Management of Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), swallowed topical corticosteroids (STSs), and dupilumab are highly effective therapies for the treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis. Shared decision-making informs the choice of therapy and factors such as ease of use, safety, cost, and efficacy should be addressed. PPIs are the most common medication utilized early in the disease course; however, for nonresponders, STSs are an excellent alternative. Dupilumab is unlikely to replace PPIs or STSs as first-line therapy, except in highly specific circumstances. Identification of novel biologic pathways and the development of small molecules may lead to a wider range of treatment options in the future.

Impact of large scale, multicomponent intervention to reduce proton pump inhibitor overuse in integrated healthcare system: difference-in-difference study

OBJECTIVE

To determine how a large scale, multicomponent, pharmacy based intervention to reduce proton pump inhibitor (PPI) overuse affected prescribing patterns, healthcare utilization, and clinical outcomes.

DESIGN

Difference-in-difference study.

SETTING

US Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, in which one regional network implemented the overuse intervention and all 17 others served as controls.

PARTICIPANTS

All individuals receiving primary care from 2009 to 2019.

INTERVENTION

Limits on PPI refills for patients without a documented indication for long term use, voiding of PPI prescriptions not recently filled, facilitated electronic prescribing of H2 receptor antagonists, and education for patients and clinicians.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the percentage of patients who filled a PPI prescription per 6 months. Secondary outcomes included percentage of days PPI gastroprotection was prescribed in patients at high risk for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, percentage of patients who filled either a PPI or H2 receptor antagonist prescription, hospital admission for acid peptic disease in older adults appropriate for PPI gastroprotection, primary care visits for an upper gastrointestinal diagnosis, upper endoscopies, and PPI associated clinical conditions.

RESULTS

The number of patients analyzed per interval ranged from 192 607 to 250 349 in intervention sites and from 3 775 953 to 4 360 868 in control sites, with 26% of patients receiving PPIs before the intervention. The intervention was associated with an absolute reduction of 7.3% (95% confidence interval -7.6% to -7.0%) in patients who filled PPI prescriptions, an absolute reduction of 11.3% (-12.0% to -10.5%) in PPI use among patients appropriate for gastroprotection, and an absolute reduction of 5.72% (-6.08% to -5.36%) in patients who filled a PPI or H2 receptor antagonist prescription. No increases were seen in primary care visits for upper gastrointestinal diagnoses, upper endoscopies, or hospital admissions for acid peptic disease in older patients appropriate for gastroprotection. No clinically significant changes were seen in any PPI associated clinical conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The multicomponent intervention was associated with reduced PPI use overall but also in patients appropriate for gastroprotection, with minimal evidence of either clinical benefits or harms.

High-dose proton pump inhibitor treatment is associated with a higher mortality in cirrhotic patients: A multicentre study

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) are frequently used in patients with cirrhosis.

AIMS

This study aimed to determine whether PPI use is associated with the prognosis of cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

We conducted a multicentre retrospective cohort study involving 1485 patients who had experienced hepatic encephalopathy (HE) from 7 referral centres in Korea. The primary outcome was overall survival and secondary outcomes included the development of cirrhotic complications, including recurrent HE, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), and gastrointestinal bleeding. Patients treated with PPI with a mean defined daily dose (mDDD) ≥0.5 (high-dose PPI group) were compared to those treated with PPI of an mDDD < 0.5 (No or low-dose PPI group) for each outcome.

RESULTS

Among 1485 patients (median age, 61 years; male, 61%), 232 were assigned to the high-dose PPI group. High-dose PPI use was independently associated with a higher risk of death (adjusted HR [aHR] = 1.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.38-2.11, p < 0.001). This result was reproducible after propensity score-matching (PSM) (aHR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.49-2.44, p < 0.001). High-dose PPI use was an independent risk factor of recurrent HE (before PSM: aHR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.66-2.51, p < 0.001; after PSM: aHR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.70-2.74, p < 0.001), SBP (before PSM: aHR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.43-2.43, p < 0.001; after PSM: aHR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.31-2.36, p = 0.002), HRS (before PSM: aHR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.02-2.15, p = 0.04; after PSM: aHR = 1.47, 95% CI = 0.95-2.28, p = 0.09), and gastrointestinal bleeding (before PSM: aHR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.12-1.90, p = 0.006; after PSM: aHR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.28-2.37, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of high-dose PPI was independently associated with increased risks of mortality and cirrhotic complications.

Long-term Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors is Associated With An Increased Risk of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

BACKGROUNDS

The adverse effects of long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have led to growing concern. The association between PPIs use and the risks of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains controversial.

GOAL

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between PPIs use and the risks of NAFLD among the general adult population in the United States.

STUDY

We performed a cross-sectional study by extracting data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of 2017 to 2018. The association between PPIs use and NAFLD risks was analyzed by weighted multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among the 4238 participants included in this study, 2167 were diagnosed with NAFLD. In the multivariate logistic regression model, PPIs use was associated with increased risks of NAFLD [odds ratio (OR): 1.318, 95% CI: 1.044-1.663; P=0.020]. This association was nonsignificant in participants taking PPIs for ˂5 years (OR: 0.846, 95% CI: 0.579-1.238; P=0.390), whereas it remained significant in participants taking PPIs for more than 5 years (OR: 2.016, 95% CI: 1.366-2.975; P=0.031). Further analysis showed that the use of PPIs was positively associated with risks of severe hepatic steatosis (OR: 1.451, 95% CI: 1.034-2.036; P=0.031) but not with mild-to-moderate steatosis (OR: 1.242, 95% CI: 0.886-1.741; P=0.208).

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that taking PPIs was associated with increased risks of NAFLD, especially severe hepatic steatosis. Awareness should be raised regarding the potential risks of NAFLD when prescribing PPIs.

Effects of 1-kestose on microbiome changes caused by vonoprazan: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Potassium-competitive acid blockers more strongly suppress the gastric acid barrier than proton pump inhibitors and cause dysbiosis. However, preventive measures in this regard have not been established. We aimed to evaluate whether 1-kestose, a known prebiotic, was effective at alleviating dysbiosis caused by potassium-competitive acid blockers.

METHODS

Patients scheduled to undergo endoscopic resection for superficial gastroduodenal tumors were enrolled and randomized 1:1 to receive either 1-kestose or placebo. All patients were started on potassium-competitive acid blocker (vonoprazan 20 mg/day) and took 1-kestose 10 g/day or placebo (maltose) 5 g/day for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was the effect of 1-kestose on potassium-competitive acid blocker-induced alterations in the microbiome. The fecal microbiome was analyzed before and after potassium-competitive acid blocker treatment via MiSeq (16S rRNA gene V3-V4 region).

RESULTS

Forty patients were enrolled, and 16 in each group were analyzed. In the placebo group, the Simpson index, an alpha diversity, was significantly decreased and relative abundance of Streptococcus was significantly increased by 1.9-fold. In the kestose group, the Simpson index did not change significantly and relative abundance of Streptococcus increased 1.3-fold, but this was not a significant change. In both groups, no adverse events occurred, ulcers were well healed, and pretreatment and posttreatment short-chain fatty acid levels did not differ.

CONCLUSIONS

The potassium-competitive acid blocker caused dysbiosis in the placebo group; this effect was prevented by 1-kestose. Thus, 1-kestose may be useful in dysbiosis treatment.

Primary and Specialty Care Trainees' Perceptions About Proton Pump Inhibitor Use

OBJECTIVE

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely prescribed with proven efficacy in many indications, yet longstanding controversy about potential adverse events persists. We aimed to acquire knowledge about perceptions of outpatient PPI long-term prescribing (≥8 wk) among primary and specialty care trainees at 2 Canadian Universities.

METHODS

Family medicine, internal medicine, and gastroenterology trainees completed a web-based survey that included 20 clinical scenarios assessing trainee knowledge about PPI efficacy. Contextual PPI prescribing decisions were also elicited, balancing possible PPI indications versus side effects. Management strategies were compared between junior and senior trainees, as well as across training programs.

RESULTS

Over a 4-month period,163 trainees (age <26 y: 12%; age 26 to 45: 88%; 59% females) participated in the survey (family medicine: 51%, internal medicine: 44%, and gastroenterology: 5%); 83% were considered junior residents. Only 42% had received formal education on prescribing PPI long-term. Overall, 93% believed they would benefit from such teaching, with 98% stating they would follow related guidelines. No between-group differences were noted in knowledge of appropriate PPI indications nor possible side effects when comparing juniors to seniors, or among different specialties. Across different management scenarios, inappropriate PPI discontinuation was chosen by 14.3% to 67.2%, whereas inappropriate PPI continuation was reported in up to 57%. Trainee seniority and specialty did not differ in appropriate deprescribing rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Training level and primary versus specialty care settings are associated with frequent inappropriate PPI prescribing and deprescribing. These findings highlight the need for and may inform future educational programs on PPI usage.

Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of DW1903 in Patients with Gastritis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Noninferiority, Multicenter, Phase 3 study

Background/Aims

H2 receptor antagonists (H2RA) have been used to treat gastritis by inhibiting gastric acid. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are more potent acid suppressants than H2RA. However, the efficacy and safety of low-dose PPI for treating gastritis remain unclear. The aim was to investigate the efficacy and safety of low-dose PPI for treating gastritis.

Methods

A double-blind, noninferiority, multicenter, phase 3 clinical trial randomly assigned 476 patients with endoscopic erosive gastritis to a group using esomeprazole 10 mg (DW1903) daily and a group using famotidine 20 mg (DW1903R1) daily for 2 weeks. The full-analysis set included 319 patients (DW1903, n=159; DW1903R1, n=160) and the per-protocol set included 298 patients (DW1903, n=147; DW1903R1, n=151). The primary endpoint (erosion improvement rate) and secondary endpoint (erosion and edema cure rates, improvement rates of hemorrhage, erythema, and symptoms) were assessed after the treatment. Adverse events were compared.

Results

According to the full-analysis set, the erosion improvement rates in the DW1903 and DW1903R1 groups were 59.8% and 58.8%, respectively. According to the per-protocol analysis, the erosion improvement rates in the DW1903 and DW1903R1 groups were 61.9% and 59.6%, respectively. Secondary endpoints were not significantly different between two groups except that the hemorrhagic improvement rate was higher in DW1903 with statistical tendency. The number of adverse events were not statistically different.

Conclusions

DW1903 of a low-dose PPI was not inferior to DW1903R1 of H2RA. Thus, lowdose PPI can be a novel option for treating gastritis (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05163756).

Proton pump Inhibitors and Risk of Enteric Infection in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Self-controlled Case Series

BACKGROUND

We tested whether proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are associated with enteric infections among those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), after adequately accounting for baseline differences between PPI users and nonusers.

METHODS

This was a self-controlled case series, with each patient serving as their own control. Ambulatory patients with IBD were included if they were tested for enteric infection by multiplex polymerase chain reaction testing panel (GIPCR) and/or Clostridoides difficile toxin PCR from 2015 to 2019 and received PPIs for some but not all of this period. Rates of enteric infections were compared between the PPI-exposed period vs pre- and post-PPI periods identical in duration to the exposed period. Conditional Poisson regression was used to adjust for time-varying factors.

RESULTS

Two hundred twenty-one IBD patients were included (49% ulcerative colitis, 46% Crohn's disease, and 5% indeterminate colitis). The median PPI duration was 7 months (interquartile range 4 to 11 months). A total of 25 (11%) patients had a positive GIPCR or C. difficile test in the PPI period, 9 (4%) in the pre-PPI period, and 8 (4%) in the post-PPI period. Observed incidence rates for enteric infections were 2.5, 7.4, and 2.2 per 100 person years for the pre-PPI, PPI, and post-PPI periods, respectively (adjusted incidence rate ratios, 2.8; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3-6.0) for PPI vs pre-PPI and 2.9 (95% CI, 1.3-6.4) for PPI vs post-PPI). The adjusted absolute excess risk associated with PPIs was 4.9 infections per 100 person years.

CONCLUSIONS

Proton pump inhibitors were associated with a 3-fold increased risk for enteric infection among those with IBD but had a modest absolute risk.

Severe Anemia from Multiple Gastric Hyperplastic Polyps in a Hemodialysis Patient after Long-term Use of a Proton-pump Inhibitor

A 90-year-old man on maintenance hemodialysis was admitted due to severe symptomatic anemia. Biopsies under esophagogastroduodenoscopy demonstrated that the cause of anemia was intermittent blood oozing from multiple gastric hyperplastic polyps. Even after successful eradication of Helicobacter pylori, he showed hypergastrinemia (480 pg/mL) owing to esomeprazole (proton-pump inhibitor) therapy for the past 4.5 years to treat reflux esophagitis. Seven months after we switched esomeprazole to famotidine (H2-receptor antagonist), those gastric polyps and anemia were remarkably ameliorated with lowered gastrin levels. This case indicates that long-term use of a proton-pump inhibitor triggers chronic hypergastrinemia, leading to gastric hyperplastic polyps and subsequent severe anemia.

Incidence of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth and Symptoms After 7 Days of Proton Pump Inhibitor Use: A Study on Healthy Volunteers

INTRODUCTION

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed drugs. Chronic PPI use has recently been associated with the risk for developing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). It is not known whether the short-term prescription of a PPI can trigger SIBO. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the incidence of SIBO and gastrointestinal symptoms after 7 days of PPI use.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective, pilot, open-label study was conducted on asymptomatic healthy volunteers. The incidence of SIBO was evaluated at the baseline and after administration of 40 mg of pantoprazole once a day for 7 days, through a glucose breath test. In addition, the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms, the number of bowel movements, and the consistency of stools, according to the Bristol scale, were assessed.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight healthy subjects (71.1% women, mean age 25.18 ± 6.5 years) were analyzed. The incidence of SIBO after 7 days of PPI administration was 7.8% (95% CI 1.6-21.3%). The patients that developed SIBO had a greater prevalence of bloating (p = 0.0002) and flatulence (p = 0.004) after 7 days of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that a short-term 7-day PPI course produced SIBO in 7.8% of healthy subjects. Although, inappropriate use of PPIs should be discouraged, but since more than 90% of subjects who received PPIs for one week did not develop SIBO, the advantages of PPI administration seem to outweigh the disadvantages.

Good clinical practice recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. An expert review from the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología

INTRODUCTION

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is very prevalent in the general population, with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, requiring accurate diagnosis and treatment.

AIM

The aim of this expert review is to establish good clinical practice recommendations for the diagnosis and personalized treatment of GERD.

METHODS

The good clinical practice recommendations were produced by a group of experts in GERD, members of the Asociación Mexicana de Gastroenterología (AMG), after carrying out an extensive review of the published literature and discussing each recommendation at a face-to-face meeting. This document does not aim to be a clinical practice guideline with the methodology such a document requires.

RESULTS

Fifteen experts on GERD formulated 27 good clinical practice recommendations for recognizing the symptoms and complications of GERD, the rational use of diagnostic tests and medical treatment, the identification and management of refractory GERD, the overlap with functional disorders, endoscopic and surgical treatment, and GERD in the pregnant woman, older adult, and the obese patient.

CONCLUSIONS

An accurate diagnosis of GERD is currently possible, enabling the prescription of a personalized treatment in patients with this condition. The goal of the good clinical practice recommendations by the group of experts from the AMG presented in this document is to aid both the general practitioner and specialist in the process of accurate diagnosis and treatment, in the patient with GERD.

Association Between Acid-Suppressive Drugs and Risk of Rosacea: Retrospective Study Using the Korean National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort

BACKGROUND

Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin disease with multiple etiologies. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RA) are acid suppressive drugs widely used for gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, and long-term use has been reported to be associated with dysbiosis which is a potential risk for development of rosacea. This study aimed to study the association between rosacea and acid suppressants in the Korean national cohort.

METHODS

We used Korean National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort data of 749,166 patients with upper GI diseases between 2001 and 2013. Duration of acid suppressants was compared between patients with and without rosacea together with other sociodemographic characteristics and hazard ratios were estimated.

RESULTS

Longer use of acid suppressants was significantly associated with increased risk of rosacea. After adjustment for possible confounders, increased cumulative defined daily dose was significantly associated with risk of rosacea (odds ratio [OR], 1.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20-2.00; P = 0.001). Other factors significantly associated with risk of rosacea include residing in the rural area (OR, 2.58; 95% CI, 2.18-3.06; P < 0.001), greater Charlson Comorbidity Index score (OR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.15-1.83; P = 0.002), and comorbidities (malignancy, thyroid disease, and depression).

CONCLUSION

Results from our study indicate that H2RA or PPI is associated with the occurrence of rosacea among patients with GI diseases in the Korean population. The risk was increased in dose-dependent manner, even after adjusting for confounding variables. Clinicians should be aware of risks associated with prolonged use of acid suppressive drugs.

Physicians' views on pharmacists' involvement in hospital deprescribing: A qualitative study on proton pump inhibitors

BACKGROUND

Clinical pharmacists have a pivotal role in the management of the patient's medication. However, it is necessary to know how pharmacist-mediated deprescribing could be implemented in a hospital setting according to hospital physicians.

OBJECTIVE

To explore physicians' views on the involvement of hospital pharmacists in the deprescribing process using the example of PPIs.

METHODS

A qualitative study using two focus groups with hospital physicians was conducted to determine their attitudes regarding deprescribing initiated by the hospital pharmacist. The interviews were recorded and transcribed using the NVivo analysis software. A thematic analysis led to a categorization of all the verbatims.

RESULTS

Hospital doctors are reluctant to deprescribe drugs initiated by a colleague and feel that it is the responsibility of the general practitioner (GP), who fails to do so due to lack of time. In this situation, the hospital pharmacist is in the best position to deprescribe because of his/her expertise in drug therapy. This should be a discussion between the hospital pharmacist, the hospital doctor, the GP and the patient. Deprescribing should always be adapted to the patient's context.

CONCLUSION

Hospital physicians are open to a pharmacist-mediated, patient-centred approach to deprescribing as long as the GP is involved.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease management and chronic use of proton pump inhibitors

ABSTRACT

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs worldwide and have changed the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, these drugs have been associated with several potentially serious adverse reactions if used chronically. Guidelines from the American College of Gastroenterology in 2021 and the American Gastroenterological Association's 2022 clinical practice updates reflect the latest recommendations. This article reviews the management and treatment of GERD and the adverse reactions to long-term PPI use.

The Impact of Intermittent Fasting on Patients With Suspected Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

GOAL

The aim was to investigate the short-term impact of time restricted feeding on patients with suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

BACKGROUND

Lifestyle modifications are often suggested, but the role of diet in GERD is unclear. Intermittent fasting is popular in the media and has demonstrated potential benefits with weight loss and inflammatory conditions as well as alterations in gastrointestinal hormones.

STUDY

Patients who were referred for 96-hour ambulatory wireless pH monitoring off proton pump inhibitor to investigate GERD symptoms were screened for eligibility. Patients were instructed to maintain their baseline diet for the first 2 days of pH monitoring and switch to an intermittent fasting regimen (16 consecutive hour fast and 8 h eating window) for the second 2 days. Objective measures of reflux and GERD symptom severity were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 25 participants were analyzed. 9/25 (36%) fully adhered to the intermittent fasting regimen, with 21/25 (84%) demonstrating at least partial compliance. Mean acid exposure time on fasting days was 3.5% versus 4.3% on nonfasting days. Intermittent fasting was associated with a 0.64 reduction in acid exposure time (95% CI: -2.32, 1.05). There was a reduction in GERD symptom scores of heartburn and regurgitation during periods of intermittent fasting (14.3 vs. 9.9; difference of -4.46, 95% CI: -7.6,-1.32).

CONCLUSIONS

Initial adherence to time restricted eating may be difficult for patients. There is weak statistical evidence to suggest that intermittent fasting mildly reduces acid exposure. Our data show that short-term intermittent fasting improves symptoms of both regurgitation and heartburn.

On-demand Versus Continuous Maintenance Treatment With a Proton Pump Inhibitor for Mild Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Prospective Randomized Multicenter Study

Background/Aims

It remains unclear which maintenance treatment modality is most appropriate for mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We aimed to compare on-demand treatment with continuous treatment using a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) in the maintenance treatment for patients with non-erosive GERD or mild erosive esophagitis.

Methods

Patients whose GERD symptoms improved after 4 weeks of standard dose PPI treatment were prospectively enrolled at 25 hospitals. Subsequently, the enrolled patients were randomly assigned to either an on-demand or a continuous maintenance treatment group, and followed in an 8-week interval for up to 24 weeks.

Results

A total of 304 patients were randomized to maintenance treatment (continuous, n = 151 vs on-demand, n = 153). The primary outcome, the overall proportion of unwillingness to continue the assigned maintenance treatment modality, failed to confirm the non-inferiority of on-demand treatment (45.9%) compared to continuous treatment (36.1%). Compared with the on-demand group, the GERD symptom and health-related quality of life scores significantly more improved and the overall satisfaction score was significantly higher in the continuous treatment group, particularly at week 8 and week 16 of maintenance treatment. Work impairment scores were not different in the 2 groups, but the prescription cost was less in the on-demand group. Serum gastrin levels significantly elevated in the continuous treatment group, but not in the on-demand group.

Conclusions

Continuous treatment seems to be more appropriate for the initial maintenance treatment of non-erosive GERD or mild erosive esophagitis than on-demand treatment. Stepping down to on-demand treatment needs to be considered after a sufficient period of continuous treatment.

Should evidence of an autolysosomal de-acidification defect in Alzheimer and Parkinson diseases call for caution in prescribing chronic PPI and DMARD?

Nearly fifty million older people suffer from neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer (AD) and Parkinson (PD) disease, a global burden expected to triple by 2050. Such an imminent "neurological pandemic" urges the identification of environmental risk factors that are hopefully avoided to fight the disease. In 2022, strong evidence in mouse models incriminated defective lysosomal acidification and impairment of the autophagy pathway as modifiable risk factors for dementia. To date, the most prescribed lysosomotropic drugs are proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), chloroquine (CQ), and the related hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), which belong to the group of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). This commentary aims to open the discussion on the possible mechanisms connecting the long-term prescribing of these drugs to the elderly and the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases.Abbreviations: AD: Alzheimer disease; APP-βCTF: amyloid beta precursor protein-C-terminal fragment; BACE1: beta-secretase 1; BBB: brain blood barrier; CHX: Ca2+/H+ exchanger; CMI: cognitive mild impairment; CQ: chloroquine; DMARD: disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs; GBA1: glucosylceramidase beta 1; HCQ: hydroxychloroquine; HPLC: high-performance liquid chromatography; LAMP: lysosomal associated membrane protein; MAPK/JNK: mitogen-activated protein kinase; MAPT: microtubule associated protein tau; MCOLN1/TRPML1: mucolipin TRP cation channel 1; NFE2L2/NRF2: NFE2 like bZIP transcription factor 2; NRBF2: nuclear receptor binding factor 2; PANTHOS: poisonous flower; PD: Parkinson disease; PIK3C3: phosphatIdylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3; PPI: proton pump inhibitor; PSEN1: presenilin 1, RUBCN: rubicon autophagy regulator; RUBCNL: rubicon like autophagy enhancer; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; TMEM175: transmembrane protein 175; TPCN2: two pore segment channel 2; VATPase: vacuolar-type H+-translocating ATPase; VPS13C: vacuolar protein sorting ortholog 13 homolog C; VPS35: VPS35 retromer complex component; WDFY3: WD repeat and FYVE domain containing 3; ZFYVE1: zinc finger FYVE-type containing 1.

[Peptic ulcer]

Peptic ulcer disease is a frequent pathology; although the incidence has decreased in recent years, it continues to be an important cause of morbidity and mortality associated with high healthcare costs. The most important risk factors are Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infection and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Most patients with peptic ulcer disease remain asymptomatic, with dyspepsia being the most frequent and often characteristic symptom. It can also debut with complications such as upper gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation or stenosis. The diagnostic technique of choice is upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Treatment with proton pump inhibitors, eradication of H. pylori and avoiding the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the basis of treatment. However, prevention is the best strategy, it includes an adequate indication of proton pump inhibitors, investigation and treatment of H. pylori, avoiding non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or using those that are less gastrolesive.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Symptoms potentially attributable to gastroesophageal reflux disease are among those most commonly reported to primary care providers in the outpatient setting. In this review, we discuss clinical approaches to the evaluation and management of these symptoms, including proton pump inhibitor trials as well as specific indications or clinical settings that warrant referral to Gastroenterology specialists.

Association of Proton Pump Inhibitor Use With Incident Dementia and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Prior studies have suggested that proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use is associated with increased risk of dementia; however, these have been limited by incomplete assessment of medication use and failure to account for confounders. Furthermore, prior studies have relied on claims-based diagnoses for dementia, which can lead to misclassification. We investigated the associations of PPI and histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) use with dementia and cognitive decline.

METHODS

We conducted a post hoc analysis of ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE), a randomized trial of aspirin in the United States and Australia, including 18,934 community-based adults ≥65 years of all races/ethnicities. Baseline and recent PPI and H2RA use were determined according to review of medications during annual in-person study visits. Incident dementia was defined according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, criteria. Secondary endpoints include cognitive impairment, no dementia (CIND) and changes in cognition. Associations of medication use with dementia and CIND outcomes were examined using Cox proportional hazards models. Changes in cognitive test scores were examined using linear mixed-effects models.

RESULTS

Baseline PPI use vs nonuse was not associated with incident dementia (multivariable hazard ratio, 0.88; 95% confidence interval, 0.72-1.08), CIND (multivariable hazard ratio, 1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.92-1.09), or with changes in overall cognitive test scores over time (multivariable B, -0.002; standard error, 0.01; P = .85). Similarly, no associations were observed between H2RA use and all cognitive endpoints.

CONCLUSIONS

In adults ≥65 years of age, PPI and H2RA use were not associated with incident dementia, CIND, or decline in cognition over time. These data provide reassurance about the safety of long-term use of PPIs among older adults.

Impact of Concomitant Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors and Clopidogrel on Recurrent Stroke and Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Conflicting results have been reported regarding the interaction between proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and clopidogrel. We investigated whether concomitant PPI use influenced the risk of recurrence in patients with stroke and myocardial infarction (MI).

METHODS

This study used two databases for two different designs, the Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database for a self-controlled case series design, and the national sample cohort of the NHIS data base converted to the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership-Common Data Model version for a cohort study based on large-scale propensity score matching.

RESULTS

In the PPI co-prescription group, recurrent hospitalization with stroke occurred in 17.6% of the 8201 patients with history of stroke, and recurrent MI occurred in 17.1% of the 1216 patients with history of MI within1 year. According to the self-controlled case series, the overall relative risk (RR) of recurrent stroke was 2.09 (95% confidence interval (CI); 1.83-2.38); the RR showed an increasing trend parallel to the time from the beginning of PPI co-prescription. In the cohort study, there was a higher incidence of recurrent stroke in the PPI co-prescription group (Hazard ratio (HR): 1.34, 95% CI: 1.01-1.76, p = 0.04). The overall RR of recurrent MI was 1.47 (95% CI; 1.02-2.11) in the self-controlled case series; however, there was no statistically significant difference in recurrent MI in the cohort study (HR:1.42, 95% CI:0.79-2.49, p = 0.23). The impact of individual PPIs on stroke and MI showed different patterns.

CONCLUSIONS

A PPI co-prescription >4 weeks with clopidogrel was associated with hospitalization of recurrent stroke within 1 year of initial diagnosis; however, its association with recurrent MI remains inconclusive. The influence of individual PPIs should be clarified in the future.

Combined contributions of cytochrome P450s (CYPs) and non-enzymatic metabolism in the in vitro biotransformation of anaprazole, a novel proton pump inhibitor

Anaprazole, a new proton pump inhibitor (PPI), is designed for the treatment of acid-related diseases, such as gastric ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux. This study explored the in vitro metabolic transformation of anaprazole. The metabolic stabilities of anaprazole in human plasma and human liver microsomes (HLM) were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Then, the contribution (%) of non-enzymatic and cytochrome P450s (CYPs) enzyme-mediated anaprazole metabolism was assessed. To obtain the metabolic pathways of anaprazole, the metabolites generated in HLM, thermal deactivated HLM, and cDNA-expressed recombinant CYPs incubation systems were identified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q-TOF-MS). Results showed that anaprazole was very stable in human plasma and unstable in HLM. The contribution (%) of non-enzymatic vs. CYPs enzyme-mediated metabolism was 49% vs. 51%. CYP3A4 was the major enzyme (48.3%), followed by CYP2C9 (17.7%) and CYP2C8 (12.3%), in responsible for the metabolism of anaprazole. Specific chemical inhibitors targeting CYP enzymes notably blocked the metabolic transformation of anaprazole. Six metabolites of anaprazole were identified in the non-enzymatic system, whereas 17 metabolites were generated in HLM. The biotransformation reactions mainly included sulfoxide reduction to thioether, sulfoxide oxidation to sulfone, deoxidation, dehydrogenation, O-dealkylation or O-demethylation of thioether, O-demethylation and dehydrogenation of thioether, O-dealkylation and dehydrogenation of thioether, thioether O-dealkylation and dehydrogenation of thioether, and O-dealkylation of sulfone. Both enzymatic and non-enzymatic metabolisms contribute to the clearance of anaprazole in human. Anaprazole is less likely to develop drug-drug interactions in clinical use compared to other PPIs.

Clinical value of serum pepsinogen in the diagnosis and treatment of gastric diseases

Pepsinogen, secreted from the gastric mucosa, is the precursor of pepsin. It is categorized as pepsinogen 1 and pepsinogen 2 based on its immunogenicity. The pepsinogen content that can enter the blood circulation through the capillaries of the gastric mucosa is approximately 1% and remains stable all the time. The pepsinogen content in serum will change with the pathological changes of gastric mucosa. Therefore, the level of pepsinogen in serum can play a role in serologic biopsy to reflect the function and morphology of different regions of gastric mucosa and serve as an indicator of gastric disease. This study conducts relevant research on serum pepsinogen 1, pepsinogen 2, and the ratio of pepsinogen 1 to pepsinogen 2, and reviews their important value in clinical diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection, gastric ulcer, and even gastric carcinoma, providing ideas for other researchers.

Proton Pump Inhibitors, Kidney Damage, and Mortality: An Updated Narrative Review

Since their approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1989, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have become one of the most highly utilized drugs in the United States, assuming a position as one of the top 10 most prescribed medications in the country. The purpose of PPIs is to limit the amount of gastric acid secreted by the parietal cells via irreversible inhibition of the H+/K+-ATPase pump, therefore maintaining an elevated gastric acid pH of greater than 4 for 15-21 h. Even though PPIs have many clinical uses, they are not without their adverse effects, mimicking achlorhydria. Besides electrolyte abnormalities and vitamin deficiencies, long-term use of PPIs has been linked to acute interstitial nephritis, bone fractures, poor COVID-19 infection outcomes, pneumonia, and possibly an increase in all-cause mortality. The causality between PPI use and increased mortality and disease risk can be questioned since most studies are observational. Confounding variables can greatly affect an observational study and explain the wide-ranging associations with the use of PPIs. Patients on PPIs are generally older, obese, sicker with a higher number of baseline morbidities, and on more medications than the compared PPI non-users. These findings suggest that PPI users are at a higher risk of mortality and complications based on pre-existing conditions. This narrative review aims to update readers on the concerning effects that proton pump inhibitor use can have on patients and give providers a resource to create informed decisions on appropriate PPI use.

[Treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis - advancements and perspectives]

In recent years significant progress has been made in the treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), especially in the area of topical corticosteroids. Novel EoE-specific formulations have been developed and first approvals have been obtained for induction and maintenance of remission in adult EoE patients with the orodispersible budesonide tablet in Germany and other European and non-EU countries. A novel budesonide oral suspension is currently under priority review by the FDA for first approval in the U.S. In contrast, the scientific evidence on the efficacy of proton pump inhibitors remains limited. Moreover, new biologicals have been identified which showed promising results in phase 2 trials and are now being studied in phase 3. This article aims to summarize and discuss recent advances and perspectives in the treatment of EoE.

Post-Stroke Infections: Insights from Big Data Using Clinical Data Warehouse (CDW)

This study analyzed a digitized database of electronic medical records (EMRs) to identify risk factors for post-stroke infections. The sample included 41,236 patients hospitalized with a first stroke diagnosis (ICD-10 codes I60, I61, I63, and I64) between January 2011 and December 2020. Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the effect of clinical variables on post-stroke infection. Multivariable analysis revealed that post-stroke infection was associated with the male sex (odds ratio [OR]: 1.79; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49-2.15), brain surgery (OR: 7.89; 95% CI: 6.27-9.92), mechanical ventilation (OR: 18.26; 95% CI: 8.49-44.32), enteral tube feeding (OR: 3.65; 95% CI: 2.98-4.47), and functional activity level (modified Barthel index: OR: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.98-0.98). In addition, exposure to steroids (OR: 2.22; 95% CI: 1.60-3.06) and acid-suppressant drugs (OR: 1.44; 95% CI: 1.15-1.81) increased the risk of infection. On the basis of the findings from this multicenter study, it is crucial to carefully evaluate the balance between the potential benefits of acid-suppressant drugs or corticosteroids and the increased risk of infection in patients at high risk for post-stroke infection.

Association of proton pump inhibitors with gastric and colorectal cancer risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) are generally considered to be one of the well-established prescription drug classes and are commonly used to treat most acid-related diseases. However, a growing body of literature showing an association between gastric and colorectal cancer risk and PPI use continues to raise concerns about the safety of PPI use. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between proton pump inhibitor use and risk of gastric and colorectal cancer.

Methods: We collected relevant articles using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane library from 1 January 1990 to 21 March 2022. The pooled effect sizes were calculated based on the random-effects model. The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022351332).

Results: A total of 24 studies (n = 8,066,349) were included in the final analysis in the screening articles. Compared with non-PPI users, PPI users had a significantly higher risk of gastric cancer (RR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.46–2.29), but not colorectal cancer (RR = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.95–1.55). Subgroup analysis showed that there was a significant positive correlation between the use of PPI and the risk of non-cardiac cancer (RR = 2.75, 95% CI: 2.09–3.62). There was a significant trend between the duration dependent effect of PPI use and the risk of gastric cancer (&lt;1 year RR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.30–1.86; 1–3 years RR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.28–2.37; &gt;3 years RR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.15–4.66), but not colorectal cancer (≤1 year RR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.78–1.28; &gt;1 year RR = 1.18, 95% CI: 0.91–1.54; ≥5 years RR = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.95–1.17).

Conclusion: We found that PPI use increased gastric cancer risk, but not colorectal cancer risk. This result may be biased due to confounding factors. More prospective studies are needed to further validate and support our findings.

Systematic Review Registration: [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022351332], identifier [CRD42022351332].

Association between Gut Microbiota and SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Vaccine Immunogenicity

Gut microbiota is increasingly recognized to play a pivotal role in various human physiological functions and diseases. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, research has suggested that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is also involved in the development and severity of COVID-19 symptoms by regulating SARS-CoV-2 entry and modulating inflammation. Previous studies have also suggested that gut microbiota and their metabolites could have immunomodulatory effects on vaccine immunogenicity, including influenza vaccines and oral rotavirus vaccines. In light of these observations, it is possible that gut microbiota plays a role in influencing the immune responses to COVID-19 vaccinations via similar mechanisms including effects of lipopolysaccharides, flagellin, peptidoglycan, and short-chain fatty acids. In this review, we give an overview of the current understanding on the role of the gut microbiota in COVID-19 manifestations and vaccine immunogenicity. We then discuss the limitations of currently published studies on the associations between gut microbiota and COVID-19 vaccine outcomes. Future research directions shall be focused on the development of microbiota-based interventions on improving immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccinations.

Dietary factors involved in GERD management

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is extremely common, and even modest weight gain has been associated with higher symptom burden as well as objective evidence of reflux on endoscopy and physiological measurement. Certain trigger foods, especially citrus, coffee, chocolate, fried food, spicy food and red sauces are frequently reported to worsen reflux symptoms, although hard evidence linking these items to objective GERD is lacking. There is better evidence that large meal volume and high calorie content can increase esophageal reflux burden. Conversely, sleeping with the head end of the bed raised, avoiding lying down close to meals, sleeping on the left side and weight loss can improve reflux symptoms and objective reflux evidence, especially when the esophagogastric junction 'reflux barrier' is compromised (e.g., in the presence of a hiatus hernia). Consequently, attention to diet and weight loss are both important elements of management of GERD, and need to be incorporated into management plans.