Proton-pump Inhibitor Use and Fracture Risk: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Proton-Pump Inhibitors and Risk of Bloodstream Infection without an Identifiable Source: a Hospital-Based Case-Control Study

The association between proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use and systemic infections caused by bacterial translocation is unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether patients receiving PPI therapy have a higher risk of bloodstream infections (BSI) without an identifiable source of infection. We conducted a hospital-based case-control study which enrolled all patients aged 20 years and older who were hospitalized in Ichinomiya Nishi Hospital with BSI confirmed by two sets of positive blood cultures in 2019. Patient data were collected from medical records, and the bacterial translocation-type (BT-type) BSI group was defined as patients with BSI without an identifiable source of infection, whereas those with a BSI from an identifiable source were assigned to the control group based on the diagnostic criteria for each infectious disease. Data from 309 patients, including 66 cases and 243 controls, were analyzed. Compared with PPI non-users, PPI users had a 2.4-fold higher risk of developing BT-type BSI after controlling for potential confounders (adjusted odds ratio: 2.41, 95% confidence interval: 1.29-4.51, P = 0.006). In conclusion, PPI use is associated with a higher risk of BSI without an identifiable source; therefore, PPI use might increase the risk of BSI secondary to bacterial translocation.

Changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients administered proton pump inhibitors: a single-center cohort study

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use may be associated with renal dysfunction. Renal dysfunction in PPI users requires evaluation of development and progression risks simultaneously, using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope, which indicates changes in eGFR per year. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have evaluated eGFR slope in PPI users. This study investigated the association between PPI use and renal dysfunction using eGFR slope. A single-center cohort study was conducted using the health records data at Hamamatsu University Hospital in Japan. Participants were defined as first users of acid-suppressing drugs (PPIs or Histamine H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs)) from 2010 to 2021 and continuously prescribed for  ≥ 90 days. The H2RA group was used for the propensity-score matching (PSM) to the PPI group to minimize the effects of confounders. The eGFR slope was estimated using a linear mixed effects model. Participants were stratified by baseline eGFR and age, respectively, as subgroup analyses. A total of 4,649 acid-suppressing drug users met the inclusion criteria, including 950 taking H2RAs and 3,699 PPIs. After PSM, 911 patients were assigned to each group. The eGFR slopes of the PPI and H2RA users were -4.75 (95% CI: -6.29, -3.20) and -3.40 (-4.38, -2.42), respectively. The difference between the groups was not significant. Significant declines in eGFR were observed with PPIs with baseline eGFR ≥ 90 and age  < 65. PPI use for  ≥ 90 days may hasten eGFR decline compared to H2RA use, especially in patients with eGFR  ≥ 90 or age  < 65.

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.

PPI use is not associated with bone microarchitecture and strength assessed with HR-pQCT after three-years follow-up in patients visiting the Fracture Liaison Service

BACKGROUND

The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has been associated with an increased fracture risk in observational studies. However, the reported association between PPI use and bone mineral density (BMD), bone microarchitecture, and bone strength is inconsistent. This study aims to assess the association between PPI use and bone microarchitecture and strength using high-resolution peripheral quantitative CT (HR-pQCT) in a three-year follow-up study in patients with a recent fracture visiting the Fracture Liaison Service (FLS).

METHODS

This three-year prospective cohort study included FLS patients aged ≥ 50 years with a recent fracture (median age 62 [IQR 56-69] years, 68.7 % females) and without anti-osteoporosis treatment indication. HR-pQCT scans (distal radius and tibia) were obtained at baseline (T0) and three-year follow-up (T3). Volumetric bone mineral density and bone area, microarchitecture, and strength (micro-finite element analysis) were determined. The association between three-year continuous PPI use and the percentage change in HR-pQCT parameters between T0 and T3 was assessed using sex-stratified multivariate linear regression analyses. Covariates included age, BMI, vitamin-D deficiency (< 50 nmol/l), glucocorticoid use, and cardiovascular co-morbidity (males and females) fracture type (major/hip vs. all others, only males) and probable sarcopenia (only females).

RESULTS

In total, 282 participants had available medication data throughout follow-up, of whom 20.6 % were continuous PPI users. In both males and females with complete HR-pQCT follow-up data (males: N = 69 radius, N = 84 tibia; females: N = 147 radius, N = 168 tibia), PPI use was not associated with the percentage change of any of the bone microarchitecture or strength parameters between T0 and T3 at the radius and tibia as compared to non-use.

CONCLUSION

Compared to non-use, PPI use was not associated with the change of bone microarchitecture and strength in FLS patients at three years of follow-up. These results do not support that an altered bone microarchitecture or strength may contribute to the increased fracture risk associated with PPI use, as reported in observational studies.

Proton pump inhibitors, bone and phosphocalcic metabolism

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used for acid-related gastrointestinal disorders; however, concerns have arisen about their prolonged and inappropriate use. Although generally considered safe, recent evidence has linked PPI use with an increased risk of kidney disease, stomach cancer, pneumonia, dementia, cardiovascular events and potential bone health problems. This systematic review examines the effects of PPIs on bone health, including osteoporosis and changes in phosphocalcic and magnesium metabolism, through a comprehensive analysis of the recent literature. The relationship between PPIs, bone mineral density and fracture risk, especially in populations with comorbidities, is complex and we propose a focus based on recent data. Studies of the effect of PPI use on bone mineral density have shown mixed results and require further investigation. Observational studies have indicated an increased risk of fractures, particularly vertebral fractures, associated with PPI use. Recent meta-analyses have confirmed an association between PPI use and hip fractures with a dose-dependent effect. More recently, PPIs have been associated with serious disturbances in phosphocalcic and magnesium metabolism that require careful management and discontinuation. Proton pump inhibitor-induced hypomagnesemia (PPIH) is a well-established phenomenon. In addition, hypocalcemia secondary to severe hypomagnesemia has been described. Despite growing evidence of PPI-related risks, further research is essential to better understand the complex mechanisms, as most data are from observational studies and do not establish a causal relationship. This review emphasizes the need for judicious prescription practices, particularly in long-term use scenarios and rheumatological contexts.

Osseous implications of proton pump inhibitor therapy: An umbrella review

Background

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most commonly prescribed medications worldwide for acid-related disorders. While their short-term efficacy and safety are well-established, concerns regarding their long-term effects on bone health have emerged. This umbrella review aimed to synthesize the available findings on the associations between PPI use and bone metabolism outcomes.

Methods

An electronic search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Database up to September 16, 2023. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies that evaluated the relationship between PPIs and bone metabolism outcomes were included. Data extraction, quality appraisal, and synthesis were performed in line with the Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA guidelines. The strength of the evidence was graded using the GRADE criteria. Statistical analysis was performed in R version 4.3.

Results

Out of 299 records, 27 studies met the inclusion criteria. The evidence indicated a statistically significant increased risk of fractures, notably hip, spine, and wrist fractures, in PPI users. PPI use was associated with changes in Bone Mineral Density (BMD) across various bones, though the clinical relevance of these changes remains uncertain. Furthermore, PPI-induced hypomagnesemia, which can influence bone health, was identified. A notable finding was the increased risk of dental implant failures in PPI users. However, the certainty of most of the evidence ranged from very low to low based on GRADE criteria.

Conclusion

The long-term use of PPIs may be associated with adverse bone health outcomes, including increased fracture risk, alterations in BMD, hypomagnesemia, and dental implant failure. While these findings highlight potential concerns for long-term PPI users, the current evidence's low certainty underscores the need for robust, high-quality research to clarify these associations.

Budget Impact of RefluxStop™ as a Treatment for Patients with Refractory Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease in the United Kingdom

Background: Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common condition associated with heartburn and regurgitation. Standard of care for GORD patients in the UK involves initial treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and laparoscopic antireflux surgery in patients unwilling to continue or intolerant of long-term PPI treatment. Recently, RefluxStop™, a novel, implantable medical device, has proven to be an efficacious and cost-effective treatment for patients with GORD. The current analysis aimed to describe the budget impact of introducing RefluxStop™ within National Health Service (NHS) England and Wales. Objectives: To estimate the more immediate, short-term clinical and economic effects of introducing RefluxStop™ as a therapeutic option for patients with GORD treated within NHS England and Wales. Methods: A model adherent to international best practice guidelines was developed to estimate the budget impact of introducing RefluxStop™ over a 5-year time horizon, from an NHS perspective. Two hypothetical scenarios were considered, one without RefluxStop™ (comprising PPI treatment, laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, and magnetic sphincter augmentation using the LINX® system) and one with RefluxStop™ (adding RefluxStop™ to the aforementioned treatment options). Clinical benefits and costs associated with each intervention were included in the analysis. Results: Over 5 years, introducing RefluxStop™ allowed the avoidance of 347 surgical failures, 39 reoperations, and 239 endoscopic esophageal dilations. The financial impact of introducing RefluxStop™ was £3 029 702 in year 5, corresponding to a 1.68% increase in annual NHS spending on GORD treatment in England and Wales. Discussion: While the time horizon was too short to capture some of the adverse events of PPIs and complications of GORD, such as the development of Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer, the use of RefluxStop™ was associated with a substantial reduction in surgical complications, including surgical failures, reoperations, and endoscopic esophageal dilations. This favorable clinical profile resulted in cost offsets for the NHS and contributed to the marginal budget impact of RefluxStop™ estimated in the current analysis. Conclusions: Introducing RefluxStop™ as a treatment option for patients with GORD in England and Wales may be associated with clinical benefits at the expense of a marginal budget impact on the NHS.

Multidisciplinary Consensus for Rationalizing the Use of Acid Suppressants in Children and Adults: CONFOR

The use of acid suppression therapy (AST) is a common approach for managing a wide spectrum of acid peptic disorders. Histamine type 2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the most widely prescribed AST in routine clinical practice. However, an exponential surge in the prescriptions of PPIs, such as Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, Pantoprazole, Lansoprazole in recent years and their associated adverse effects have raised concern about their inappropriate and overuse, both in children and adults. To address these issues, a three-step modified Delphi polling process was employed to establish best practice consensus statements for rationalizing the use of acid suppressants. A multidisciplinary expert panel of 13 health professionals across medical specialties, including gastroenterologists, hepatologists, pediatric gastroenterologists, pediatricians, otolaryngologists, cardiologists, nephrologists, gynecologist and orthopedists actively contributed to this collaborative process of consensus development. The expert panel proposed 21 consensus statements providing best practice points on the general use and safety of acid suppressants based on a comprehensive review of scientific literature and clinical expertise. The panel also collaboratively developed a PPI deprescribing algorithm. Altogether, this consensus paper offers evidence-based recommendations and guidance for the rational use of acid suppressants with a blueprint for deprescribing PPIs. This consensus paper contributes to aiding primary care practitioners in improving patient outcomes and minimizing healthcare costs. Additionally, it enhances patient safety and curtail inappropriate usage.

How to cite this article

Prabhoo RY, Pai UA, Wadhwa A, et al. Multidisciplinary Consensus for Rationalizing the Use of Acid Suppressants in Children and Adults: CONFOR. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2024;14(1):99-119.

Cost-effectiveness of the RefluxStop device for management of refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease in Switzerland

BACKGROUND

One of the most prevalent conditions in Western societies is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In Switzerland, the standard treatment for GERD is proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-based medical management, but surgical options such as Nissen fundoplication and magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) are available. RefluxStop is a novel device that offers an alternative solution. The purpose of this report is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of RefluxStop compared to PPIs and existing surgical treatments.

METHODS

A model (Markov) was developed using the Swiss healthcare payer perspective with a lifetime horizon, 1-month cycle length, and a 3% annual discount rate for costs and benefits. Adverse events specific to treatment arms were incorporated, and benefits were measured in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Clinical efficacy data for RefluxStop was obtained from its CE mark study, and comparator treatments were based on published literature. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were used to explore uncertainty. Since there are no head-to-head studies between RefluxStop and PPI therapy, Nissen fundoplication, or MSA, a limitation of this study is the use of naïve, indirect comparison of clinical effectiveness between the studied treatment options.

RESULTS

Higher QALYs and lower costs were provided by RefluxStop compared to Nissen fundoplication and the MSA system. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for RefluxStop was CHF 2,116 in comparison to PPI-based medical management. At a cost-effectiveness threshold of CHF 100,000 per QALY gained, the probability of RefluxStop being cost-effective was high, with probabilities of 100%, 97%, and 100% against PPI-based medical management, Nissen fundoplication, and MSA, respectively. The robustness of the analysis was provided by deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSION

This cost-effectiveness analysis demonstrates that there is a high likelihood of RefluxStop being a cost-effective treatment modality in adults with GERD when compared with other treatment options available in Switzerland.

Self-controlled Case Series Study for Acute Kidney Injury after Starting Proton Pump Inhibitors or Potassium-Competitive Acid Blocker in Patients with Cancer Using a Large Claims Database

To investigate the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients with cancer following the initiation of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and potassium-competitive acid blocker (PCAB), considering sex and anti-cancer drug use. We conducted a self-controlled case-series study using the Japan Medical Data Center claims data from 12422 patients with cancer who were prescribed PPIs or PCAB between January 2017 and December 2019. Considering the timing of PPI or PCAB, control period (days -120 to -1), risk period 1 (days 0 to +30), and risk period 2 (days +31 to +365) were defined. To assess the incidence rate ratio (IRR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) as the risk ratio, we adjusted for anti-cancer drugs to assess the risk of AKI. Additionally, we also examined sex differences to identify the risk of AKI. AKI was observed in risk period 1 [2.05 (1.12-3.72), p = 0.0192], but a slight reduction was noted in risk period 2 [0.60 (0.36-1.00), p = 0.0481]. A sex-specific increase in the risk of AKI was observed only in males during risk period 1 [2.18 (1.10-4.32), p = 0.0260], with a reduction in risk period 2 [0.48 (0.26-0.89), p = 0.0200]. We identified an increased risk of AKI in patients with cancer starting PPIs or PCAB particularly in males within 30 d after PPI or PCAB initiation, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring and management of AKI in this patient population.

The association between proton pump inhibitors and hyperparathyroidism: a potential mechanism for increased fracture-results of a large observational cohort study

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are associated with increased risk of osteoporotic fracture; however, the mechanism is unclear. PPI users taking calcium supplements were more likely to have hyperparathyroidism compared to non-users (OR 1.56, CI 1.08-2.23, p = 0.018). This highlights the importance of monitoring PPI use, especially in older adults.

PURPOSE

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are associated with increased risk of osteoporotic fracture. Hyperparathyroidism may be implicated, but few studies have considered this relationship. This study evaluated the relationship between PPI use and hyperparathyroidism in older adults.

METHODS

Participants were from the TUDA study, a large cross-sectional cohort of older Irish adults. Participants with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 30 ml/min and serum calcium > 2.5 mmol/l were excluded to avoid hyperparathyroidism due to chronic renal disease and primary hyperparathyroidism. Hyperparathyroidism was defined as a parathyroid hormone (PTH) > 65 pg/ml. Multivariate regression models were used to analyse the relationship between PPI use and hyperparathyroidism.

RESULTS

A total of 4139 participants met the inclusion criteria, of whom 37.8% (n = 1563) were taking PPI medication. PPI use was identified in 41.4% of calcium supplement users and 35.4% of non-calcium supplement users. Overall, compared to non-users of PPIs, those taking PPIs were older (74.8 vs 72.9 years, p < 0.001) and had a higher prevalence of hyperparathyroidism (17.8 vs 11.0%, p < 0.001). In those taking calcium supplements (but not in non-users), PPI use was significantly associated with hyperparathyroidism (OR 1.56, CI 1.08-2.23, p = 0.018) after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, serum vitamin D, eGFR, timed-up-and-go, dairy intake, medications, and comorbidities.

DISCUSSION

The results are consistent with the hypothesis of PPIs reducing calcium absorption, leading to a rise in PTH which could mediate increased fracture risk. No relationship of PPI use with hyperparathyroidism was observed in non-users of calcium supplements, possibly owing to lower dietary calcium intake. These results highlight the importance of monitoring PPI use, especially in older adults at risk of fracture.

Pantoprazole-Induced Bone Loss through Gastrin Secretion: A Stereological Study

Background

Recent researches have failed to uncover a clear explanation for proton pump inhibitors' bone-loss effects. In light of pantoprazole's effects on gastrin secretion, the goal of this study was to see if it caused bone loss through gastrin secretion.

Methods

Forty male rats were divided into control, octreotide (Oct), pantoprazole (Pan), and pantoprazole plus octreotide (Pan+Oct) groups. Serum calcium, phosphorous, alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone, and gastrin were measured before and three months after the treatment, and bone densitometry was examined. The rats' femoral bones were examined stereologically at the end of the investigation.

Results

The Pan group had considerably greater levels of serum alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and gastrin, but this was prevented in the presence of Oct, a gastrin secretion inhibitor. All parameters of femoral bone densitometry in the Pan group were significantly lower than the control after treatment which was considerably inhibited in the presence of Oct. Furthermore, when compared to the control and Oct groups, the rats in the Pan group had a lower trabecular volume, femur bone weight, and volume, as well lower number of osteocytes. The amount of osteoclasts, on the other hand, was much higher in the Pan group than in the other groups.

Conclusion

Overall findings revealed that pantoprazole caused bone loss, which could be prevented by adding octreotide. Because these detrimental effects were not detected in rats given both Oct and Pan, it was suggested that the effect of Pan on bone was produced by a hypergastrinemic condition.

Vitamin B12 deficiency and use of proton pump inhibitors: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) may impact the absorption of vitamin B12. We performed a systematic review to ascertain if PPI use increases risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

METHODS

Electronic databases (Pubmed, Embase, Scopus) were searched on first of September 2022. We selected studies that compared the frequency of vitamin B12 deficiency in PPI users and non-users. Pooled Odds Ratio (OR) was calculated for the occurrence of vitamin B12 deficiency in PPI users compared to non-users. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa scale.

RESULTS

Twenty-five studies were included. The pooled OR of vitamin B12 deficiency among PPI users (2852 participants) was higher than non-users (28070 participants) (OR 1.42, 95% CI: 1.16-1.73; I² = 54%). Overall risk of PPI use among vitamin B12 deficient individuals was higher than those without deficiency (OR 1.49, 1.20-1.85; I² = 68%). Most studies found no difference between serum vitamin B12 levels among PPI users compared to non-users.

CONCLUSION

Although the pooled OR of vitamin B12 deficiency was slightly increased in PPI users, but there was significant heterogeneity, and the pooled OR was too low to imply an association clearly. Better-designed prospective studies in long-term users may clarify the issue.

REGISTRATION

This study was not registered on PROSPERO.

Increased Risk of Fractures and Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors in Menopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can directly interfere with osteoclastic function, induce hypergastrinemia, and inhibit calcium absorption, leading to reduced bone mineral density (BMD), a measure of bone metabolism that may be associated with the risk of fractures. The current study involves a systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at assessing the relationship between prolonged use of PPI drugs and fractures in menopausal women. A systematic search and meta-analysis were performed on PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct databases according to PRISMA guidelines. Two independent reviewers analyzed the articles. The five articles found in the databases, which met the eligibility criteria, covered participants who were menopausal women aged between 56 and 78.5 years, using or not using a PPI for a minimum of 12 months. All studies showed an increase in the rate of fractures related to using PPIs, as an outcome. Prolonged use of PPIs in menopausal women can affect bone metabolism and cause fractures. However, other factors, such as the use of other classes of drugs, obesity, low weight, poor diet, replacement hormones, and comorbidities, should also be considered for assessing the risk of fractures.

Proton Pump Inhibitors and Bone Health: An Update Narrative Review

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are an antacid drug often used in acid-related disorders. They decrease acid secretion in the stomach by blocking an enzyme called H+/K+ ATPase which controls acid production. Introduced to the market in 1989, their use has increased rapidly worldwide and they are now among the top 10 most prescribed drugs in the United States. As of 2015, the FDA has already approved six drugs of this class (omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, dexlansoprazole, pantoprazole and rabeprazole). Recently, the risks and benefits of long-term PPI use were questioned and many studies indicated that their use should be carefully considered, especially in young patients, whose treatment with these drugs could last many years. Even greater concerns have been raised about a potential positive association between PPIs and osteoporotic fracture risk including the hip, spine and wrist. Although based on observational studies, there is substantial evidence associating the long-term use of PPIs and fracture. This relationship is only partially admitted due to the lack of consistent effects of PPIs on bone mineral density loss. Therefore, this narrative review aimed to discuss the recent findings pertaining to the risk of osteoporotic fracture associated with PPIs, in particular prolonged use, and to call for further research to elucidate the mechanisms associated with this bone fragility.

Rebuilding trust in proton pump inhibitor therapy

Introduction of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy into clinical practice has revolutionized treatment approach to acid-related diseases. With its clinical success came a widespread use of PPI therapy. Subsequently, several studies found that PPIs were oftentimes overprescribed in primary care and emergency setting, likely attributed to seemingly low side-effect profile and physicians having low threshold to initiate therapy. However, now there is a growing concern over PPI side-effect profile among both patients and providers. We would like to bring more awareness to the currently available guidelines on PPI use, discuss clinical indications for PPIs and the evidence behind the reported side-effects. We hope that increased awareness of proper PPI use will make the initiation or continuation of therapy a well informed and an evidence-based decision between patient and physician. We also hope that discussing evidence behind the reported side-effect profile will help clarify the growing concerns over PPI therapy.

A comparison of survival models for prediction of eight-year revision risk following total knee and hip arthroplasty

Background

There is increasing interest in the development and use of clinical prediction models, but a lack of evidence-supported guidance on the merits of different modelling approaches. This is especially true for time-to-event outcomes, where limited studies have compared the vast number of modelling approaches available. This study compares prediction accuracy and variable importance measures for four modelling approaches in prediction of time-to-revision surgery following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

The study included 321,945 TKA and 151,113 THA procedures performed between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2017. Accuracy of the Cox model, Weibull parametric model, flexible parametric model, and random survival forest were compared, with patient age, sex, comorbidities, and prosthesis characteristics considered as predictors. Prediction accuracy was assessed using the Index of Prediction Accuracy (IPA), c-index, and smoothed calibration curves. Variable importance rankings from the Cox model and random survival forest were also compared.

Results

Overall, the Cox and flexible parametric survival models performed best for prediction of both TKA (integrated IPA 0.056 (95% CI [0.054, 0.057]) compared to 0.054 (95% CI [0.053, 0.056]) for the Weibull parametric model), and THA revision. (0.029 95% CI [0.027, 0.030] compared to 0.027 (95% CI [0.025, 0.028]) for the random survival forest). The c-index showed broadly similar discrimination between all modelling approaches. Models were generally well calibrated, but random survival forest underfitted the predicted risk of TKA revision compared to regression approaches. The most important predictors of revision were similar in the Cox model and random survival forest for TKA (age, opioid use, and patella resurfacing) and THA (femoral cement, depression, and opioid use).

Conclusion

The Cox and flexible parametric models had superior overall performance, although all approaches performed similarly. Notably, this study showed no benefit of a tuned random survival forest over regression models in this setting.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12874-022-01644-3.

Outcomes associated with proton pump inhibitors and distal radius fractures: A post-hoc comparative analysis

Long-term, high-dose, daily proton pump inhibitors (PPI) may impact outcomes associated with distal radius fractures (DRF). The hypothesis was that differences existed in patient demographics, but there existed no differences in injury patterns, interventions, post-operative complications, and patient-reported outcomes between patients not on a PPI and patients on a PPI with a DRF. METHODS: An IRB-approved, post-hoc analysis of patients with DRF from 2012 through 2018 was performed. Patients included were age ≥18 years, sustained a DRF, had completed medical and medication records, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores, Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scores, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, and a minimum of 1-year follow-up. Patients were stratified into two cohorts. Cohort one patients had no prescription or over-the-counter PPI use (no PPI cohort). Cohort two patients had adherence to a long-term, high-dose, daily PPI (PPI cohort). RESULTS: Two hundred and eighty-one DRF patients were included. Of these 281 patients, 240 were in the no PPI cohort and 41 were in the PPI cohort. Patients in the PPI cohort had more median nerve injuries (12% versus 3%, p = 0.025) and radial shaft fractures (5% versus 0%, p = 0.020), less contralateral upper extremity injuries (0% versus 4%, p = 0.001), and more post-operative nonunions (7% versus 1%, p = 0.029) compared to patients in the no PPI cohort. The results obtained suggest that a CONCLUSIONS: Long-term, high-dose, daily PPI's may be associated with more median nerve injuries and radial shaft fractures, less contralateral upper extremity injuries, and more post-operative nonunions compared to DRF patients not on a PPI.

Drug treatment strategies for eosinophilic esophagitis in adults

INTRODUCTION

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a clinical and pathological disorder, characterized by symptoms of esophageal dysfunction, and eosinophil-predominant inflammation restricted to the esophagus. Treatment outcomes include symptomatic remission, histological and endoscopic normalization and improving quality of life. Besides dietary modifications and endoscopic dilation, drugs available are swallowed topical corticosteroids (STCs) with reduced bioavailability and proton pump inhibitors (PPI).

AREAS COVERED

Herein, the authors review the current treatment strategies for EoE in adults, providing the reader with their expert perspectives. The authors give discussion to the value of PPIs as a first-line therapy for EoE, in addition to the use of STCs. The current development of new formulations of STCs targeting the esophagus and novel therapies aimed at blocking molecular pathways are also discussed. Finally, the authors briefly look at the value of monoclonal antibodies targeting IL-5RA, IL-13, IL-4 or Siglec8, and oral S1PR agonists to the treatment of EoE.

EXPERT OPINION

Viscose formulations of STC designed to coat the esophagus and new effervescent orodispersible tablets provide increased effectiveness at low doses. Investigational therapies that target several Th2-associated diseases seem useful in EoE. Comparative effectiveness and cost-utility analyses will help to position them in a complex therapeutic scenario.

The Association between Helicobacter pylori Seropositivity and Bone Mineral Density in Adults

Objectives

Current evidence on the associations between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and bone mineral density (BMD) is conflicting. Therefore, a nationally representative sample of adults was analyzed to investigate the associations of H. pylori seropositivity and BMD in this study.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted with 2555 subjects aged 40-85 years in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2001. Multivariable logistic regression models were performed to evaluate the associations between H. pylori seropositivity and BMD. Subgroup analyses stratified by sex, age, race, and body mass index (BMI) were performed.

Results

No association was found between H. pylori seropositivity and BMD (β = 0.006, 95% CI: -0.003 to 0.015, P = 0.177). In the subgroup analyses stratified by age, a positive association was observed between the H. pylori seropositivity and total BMD among subjects aged 40-55 years (β = 0.018, 95% CI: 0.004 to 0.033, P = 0.012); in the subgroup analyses stratified by sex, a positive association was observed between the H. pylori seropositive and total BMD in male (β = 0.019, 95% CI: 0.007 to 0.032, P = 0.003); in the subgroup analyses stratified by age and sex, the total BMD was higher in men aged 40-55 years with H. pylori seropositive than those with H. pylori seronegative (β = 0.034, 95% CI: 0.013 to 0.056, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

In conclusion, no association between H. pylori seropositive and total BMD was demonstrated among most middle-aged and elderly adults. H. pylori infection may not be one key factor in the loss of BMD.

The views of African and Middle Eastern Gastroenterologists on the management of mild-to-moderate, non-erosive gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)

INTRODUCTION

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that occurs when backflow of the gastric contents into the esophagus results in troublesome symptoms. Though GERD has been extensively studied in Western populations, literature on the management of GERD in patients in Africa and Middle East (AME) is scarce.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, we provide an overview of the management of mild-to-moderate GERD in AME. Here we focus on the efficacy and safety of currently available treatments for GERD to help physicians and community pharmacists appropriately manage patients with mild-to-moderate GERD in the primary healthcare setting, detailing specific situations and patient scenarios that are relevant to the region, including management of GERD during Ramadan and post-bariatric surgery.

EXPERT OPINION

Under-appreciation of the burden of GERD in the region has resulted in a lack of consensus on management. Barriers that currently prevent the adoption of treatment guidelines in the primary healthcare setting may include lack of availability of local guidelines and referral systems, a paucity of region-specific research, and dogmatic adherence to traditional practice. By increasing awareness, strengthening knowledge, and by more effective utilization of resources, physicians and pharmacists could optimize GERD management strategies to better support patients.

Association of proton-pump inhibitor use with adverse health outcomes: A systematic umbrella review of meta-analyses of cohort studies and randomised controlled trials

AIMS

The aim was to perform an umbrella review to summarise the existing evidence on proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use and adverse outcomes and to grade the certainty of evidence.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched up to July 2021 for meta-analyses of cohort studies and/or randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Summary effect sizes from a random-effects model, between-study heterogeneity, 95% prediction interval, small-study effect, excess significance and credibility ceilings were devised to classify the credibility of evidence from meta-analyses of cohort studies, whereas the GRADE approach was used for meta-analyses of RCTs.

RESULTS

In meta-analyses of cohort studies, 52 of the 91 examined associations were statistically significant (P ≤ .05). Convincing evidence emerged from main analysis for the association between PPI use and risk of all-site fracture and chronic kidney disease in the elderly population. However, none of these associations remained supported by convincing evidence after sensitivity analyses. The use of PPI is also associated with an increased risk of mortality due to COVID-19 infection and other related adverse outcomes, but the quality of evidence was weak. In meta-analyses of RCTs, 38 of the 63 examined associations were statistically significant. However, no associations were supported by high or moderate-quality evidence.

CONCLUSION

This study's findings imply that most putative adverse outcomes associated with PPI use may not be supported by high-quality evidence and are likely to have been affected by underlying confounding factors. Future research is needed to confirm the causal association between PPI use and risk of fracture and chronic kidney disease.

Gastroprotective effect of Berberis vulgaris on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury: Histopathological evaluations

OBJECTIVE

Modern treatment of peptic ulcers includes antibacterial and gastroprotective medications. However, current anti-ulcer drugs possess severe side effects. Therefore, all attempts to find new effective medications free from side effects are justified. Though Berberis vulgaris is a medicinal plant commonly used for the treatment of numerous disorders, gastroprotective effect of its leaf extract was not investigated before.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Gastric ulcer was modelled in Sprague-Dawley rats after treatment with B. vulgaris leaf extract containing 0.07% of alkaloids, 0.48% of flavonoids and 8.05% of tanning substances, 10 or 50 mg of dry extract/kg, changes in the stomach mucosa were assessed semi-quantitatively, and the gastric wall was evaluated for prostaglandin E2 level using ELISA and assessed histologically by calculation of the lesion index.

RESULTS

B. vulgaris leaf extract at the dose of 50 mg/kg reduced the macroscopic ulcer score and the microscopic lesion index, increased prostaglandin E2 concentration in the gastric wall significantly higher than atropine and B. vulgaris leaf extract 10 mg/kg.

CONCLUSION

The gastroprotective effect of the high dose of B. vulgaris leaf extract may be due to stimulation of prostaglandin E2 secretion in the stomach, and anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of polyphenolic complex of flavonoids and tannins present in the leaves of this plant.

Proton-Pump Inhibitors: Do Children Break a Leg by Using Them?

ABSTRACT

The risk of bone fracture in children under proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) treatment has been the subject of recent publications and naturally raises concerns among prescribing doctors, patients and their parents.Currently, there is no consistency in those risk claims according to the available evidence and an update on it is beneficial to reduce anxiety on one hand, and prompt for well-planned studies addressing the issue on the other. Furthermore, common sense and well-founded prescriptions must be the general rule for this as for any other therapeutic drug.

Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors adversely affects minerals and vitamin metabolism, bone turnover, bone mass, and bone strength

Notwithstanding, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the most excellent options for different anti-secretory therapy in terms of improved symptomatic outcomes, numerous epidemiological and cohort studies provide evidence of an association between long-term proton PPIs use and increased fracture risk among users. The present attempt aimed to summarize the effect of long-term use of PPIs on musculoskeletal systems by considering the recent claims of different research groups to understand the risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis and to determine the risk factors associated with these complications. We extracted data from various systematic reviews and meta-analyses, cross-sectional studies, prospective studies, case-control studies, cohort studies, and in-vivo and in-vitro studies to observe the consequence of long-term PPIs uses over the patient's bone health. Recent findings suggested that long-term use of PPIs plays an introductory and cabalistic role in the development of osteoporosis mostly hip fractures by disturbing numerous biological pathways and thus able to set up a link between over-prescription of PPIs and bone loss. Frequent administration of PPIs is associated with a significantly worse outcome to bone mineral density (BMD) profile and produce a negative impression on bone health. Since, there are limited data to determine the association of PPIs use and change in BMD, recommending further studies to find out this dissertation.

Effect of Omeprazole on Osteoblasts and Osteoclasts in vivo and in the in vitro Model Using Fish Scales

Omeprazole suppresses excessive secretion of gastric acid via irreversible inhibition of H+/K+-ATPase in the gastric parietal cells. Recent meta-analysis of data revealed an association between the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and increased risk of bone fractures, but the underlying molecular mechanism of PPI action remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that omeprazole directly influences bone metabolism using a unique in vitro bioassay system with teleost scales, as well as the in vivo model. The in vitro study showed that omeprazole significantly increased the activities of alkaline phosphatase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase after 6 h of incubation with this PPI. Expression of mRNAs for several osteoclastic markers was upregulated after 3-h incubation of fish scales with 10^-7 M omeprazole. The in vivo experiments revealed that the plasma calcium levels significantly increased in the omeprazole-treated group. The results of in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that omeprazole affects bone cells by increasing bone resorption by upregulating expression of osteoclastic genes and promoting calcium release to the circulation. The suggested in vitro bioassay in fish scales is a practical model that can be used to study the effects of drugs on bone metabolism.

Umbrella review of 42 systematic reviews with meta-analyses: the safety of proton pump inhibitors

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used to treat and prevent acid-related disorders. Despite high efficacy, PPI safety has been increasingly scrutinised. However, no comprehensive review summarising investigations of various adverse events is available.

AIMS

To perform an umbrella review to comprehensively assess associations between adverse events and PPI use.

METHODS

In accordance with PRISMA, an umbrella review of systematic reviews with meta-analyses was conducted. PubMed and EMBASE were searched from 2015 to July 2019. AMSTAR 2 and GRADE were used to assess quality and certainty of evidence. Author-reported quality assessments were also reviewed.

RESULTS

Forty-two systematic reviews with meta-analyses, supported predominantly by observational evidence, were included. The most comprehensive studies reported statistically significant associations with PPI use for several outcomes, including: fractures (eg, hip; RR = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.14-1.28; n = 2 103 800), kidney disease (eg, acute kidney injury; RR = 1.61; 95% CI = 1.16-2.22; n = 2 396 640), infections (eg, Clostridioides difficile; OR = 1.99; 95% CI = 1.73-2.30; n = 356 683), gastric cancer (OR = 2.50; 95% CI = 1.74-3.85; n = 943 070) and gastrointestinal events (eg, fundic gland polyps; OR = 2.46; 95% CI = 1.42-4.27; n = 40 218). No associations with non-gastric cancers, or neurological disease were concluded, with conflicting evidence for cardiovascular outcomes. Certainty based on GRADE was very low for most outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This review identified several published associations between PPIs and adverse outcomes, however, further investigation is needed to understand their clinical significance and the likelihood of causal relationship. If higher quality evidence is generated substantiating the potential risks, it may be necessary for clinicians to consider alternative treatment strategies, especially when PPI efficacy is suboptimal.

Use of proton pump inhibitors is associated with lower hemoglobin levels in people with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) are commonly prescribed to people with cystic fibrosis (PwCF) to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and/or protect pancreatic enzymes from degradation in the stomach. Acid suppressive medications (ASMs) could theoretically reduce hemoglobin (Hgb) levels by restricting enteral iron absorption, but evidence of an association between use of ASMs and lower Hgb levels is lacking in PwCF.

METHODS

We used unadjusted and covariate-adjusted generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) to estimate the fixed effects of using versus never using ASMs on annual Hgb levels of PwCF in the U.S. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry (CFFPR) from 2011 to 2017.

RESULTS

There were 9850 users and 9007 never-users of ASMs from 2011 to 2017 who met inclusion criteria. Not adjusting for covariates, Hgb estimates were lower for male and female H2RA and/or PPI users versus never-users. Adjusting for covariates, mean Hgb was 0.1 g/dl (95% CI: 0.03, 0.17) lower for males that exclusively used PPIs than it was for male never-users of ASMs (p = .008). Adjusting for covariates, mean Hgb levels were 0.11 g/dl (95% CI: 0.04, 0.18) lower for females that exclusively used PPIs and 0.16 g/dl (95% CI: 0.05, 0.27) lower for females that used PPIs and H2RAs concurrently than it was for female never-users of ASMs (p = .005 and p = .002 for respective comparisons).

CONCLUSIONS

Males and females with cystic fibrosis (CF) who used PPIs and females with CF who concurrently used PPIs and H2RAs had lower Hgb levels than never-users of ASMs of the same sex in the CFFPR from 2011 to 2017.

Phosphorus bioaccessibility measured in four amino acid-based formulas using in-vitro batch digestion translates well into phosphorus bioavailability in mice

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to quantify the bioaccessibility of phosphorus from amino acid-based formulas (AAFs) under different digestive conditions.

METHODS

We developed in-vitro batch digestion models with stomach digestion at different pH mimicking the normal digestive condition and conditions representing use of acid-suppressive medication. To validate bioaccessibility findings, we devised a low phosphorus murine model to test phosphorus bioavailability under compromised digestive conditions using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to neutralize stomach pH.

RESULTS

In vitro phosphorus bioaccessibility of AAFs Neocate® Infant and Neocate Junior ranged between 57% and 65% under normal digestive conditions for infants (stomach pH 3.5) and between 38% and 46% under conditions that simulated bypass of stomach acidification, which is comparable to control diet and two EleCare® AAFs. In vivo bioavailability analysis showed that both Neocate formulas were able to normalize plasma phosphorus levels when administered to low phosphorus mice along with PPIs (control diet + PPI 8 ± 0.4; Neocate Infant 10.1 ± 0.9; Neocate Junior 9.2 ± 0.6; EleCare Infant 8.6 ± 0.4; EleCare Junior 8.7 ± 0.5; n = 8-10; P < 0.0001 versus baseline 3.4 ± 0.2 mg/dL). In comparison, plasma phosphorus levels remained lower on the low phosphorus diet (5.7 ± 0.2 mg/dL). Furthermore, urinary phosphorus/creatinine and intact fibroblast growth factor 23 were significantly lowered by low phosphorus diet. In contrast, intact parathyroid hormone and 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D decreased and increased, respectively, and these parameters likewise normalized in mice administered AAFs.

CONCLUSION

The present findings indicated that phosphorus bioaccessibility in the in-vitro batch digestion model translates well into phosphorus bioavailability in mice even under compromised digestive conditions that bypass gastric acidification.

Targeted Therapies for Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders

The growing recognition of eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders has revealed the limitations of current treatment (mainly based on dietary modification and corticosteroids), and include refractoriness, high recurrence rates, and the need for long-term therapy. Research efforts, mainly in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), have unveiled essential pathophysiological mechanisms leading to these disorders, which bear some similarities to those of atopic manifestations and are shared by eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EGE) and eosinophilic colitis (EC). Novel targeted therapies, some imported from bronchial asthma and atopic dermatitis, are currently being assessed in EoE. The most promising are monoclonal antibodies, including those targeting interleukin (IL)-13 (cendakimab) and IL-4 (dupilumab), with phase 3 trials currently ongoing. The potential of anti-integrin therapy (vedolizumab) and Siglec-8 blockers (antolimab) in EGE are also promising. Non-biological therapies for eosinophilic gut disorders, which include preventing the activation of Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) and chemoattractant receptor expressed on T helper 2 cells (CRTH2) signaling pathways, and other potential targets that deserve investigation in eosinophilic gut disorders, are reviewed.

Low-dose PPI to prevent bleeding after ESD: A multicenter randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

Although proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used in the prevention of gastric bleeding caused by endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), there is no consensus on the optimal regimen for these patients. Therefore, we aim to investigate whether intermittent use of low-dose PPI is sufficient to prevent post-ESD bleeding.

METHODS

This multicenter, non-inferiority, randomized controlled trial was conducted at 9 hospitals in China. Consecutive eligible patients with a diagnosis of gastric mucosal lesions after ESD treatment were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either intermittent low-dose or continuous high-dose PPIs treatment. After three days, all patients administered orally esomeprazole 40 mg once a day for 8 weeks. The primary endpoint was post-ESD bleeding within 7 days. Analysis was done according to the intention-to-treat principle with the non-inferiority margin (Δ) of 5%.

RESULTS

526 consecutive patients were assessed for eligibility from 30 September 2017 to 30 July 2019, of whom 414 were randomly assigned to low-dose (n = 209) or high-dose (n = 205) esomeprazole treatment group without dropouts within7 days. The total post-ESD bleeding is occurred in 13 (6.2 %, 95 % CI 3.3-9.6) of 209 within 7 days in the intermittent low-dose group, and 12 (5.9 %, 95 % CI 2.9-9.3) of 205 in the continuous high-dose group. The absolute risk reduction (ARR) was 0.4 % (-4.2, 4.9). One month after ESD, There are 44 patients (21.1 %, 95 % CI 15.8, 26.8) and 39 patients (19.0 % 95 % CI 13.7, 24.4) in scar stage respectively in low-dose group and high-dose group (P = 0.875).The hospital costs in the low-dose PPI group was lower than high -dose group (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

The intermittent use of low-dose PPIs is sufficient to prevent post-ESD bleeding. It might be applied in clinical practice to prevent post-ESD bleeding and reduce the costs related to PPIs.

Herbal medicines in functional dyspepsia-Untapped opportunities not without risks

BACKGROUND

Contemporary treatments for functional dyspepsia have limitations. Herbal medicine has been suggested as adjunctive treatment. With growing scientific recognition and public interests, an in-depth review of this is timely.

AIMS/PURPOSE

To evaluate the therapeutic potential and problems that may be associated with the adoption of herbal medicines in functional dyspepsia.

METHODS

We reviewed the treatment landscape of functional dyspepsia and assessed the scientific community's interest in herbal medicine. Preclinical pharmacological and clinical trial data were reviewed for several herbal medicines available in the market. Challenges associated with adoption of herbal medicine in mainstream medicine were critically evaluated.

RESULTS

We found that herbal medicines frequently comprise a combination of herbs with multiple reported pharmacological effects on gastrointestinal motility and secretory functions, as well as cytoprotective and psychotropic properties. We identified a number of commercially available herbal products that have undergone rigorous clinical trials, involving large numbers of well-defined subjects, reporting both efficacy and safety for functional dyspepsia. Persisting concerns include lack of rigorous assessments for majority of products, toxicity, consistency of ingredients, dose standardizations, and quality control. We provide a quality framework for its evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

We commend herbal medicine as a viable future option in managing functional dyspepsia. An attractive appeal of herbal medicine is the prospect to simultaneously target multiple pathophysiological mechanisms. Wider adoption and acceptance of herbal medicines in treatment algorithms of functional dyspepsia will require the application of the scientific rigor expected of chemical therapies, to all stages of their development and evaluation.

Proton Pump Inhibitors and Fractures in Adults: A Critical Appraisal and Review of the Literature

Despite the large number of patients worldwide being on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid-related gastrointestinal disorders, uncertainty remains over their long-term safety. Particularly, the potential side effects of these drugs on bone health have been evaluated in the last years. The purpose of our narrative review is to gather and discuss results of clinical studies focusing on the interactions between PPIs and fracture risk. Data generated mainly from nested case-control studies and meta-analysis suggest that long-term/high-dose PPIs users are characterized by an increased risk of fragility fractures, mainly hip fractures. However, in these studies, the PPIs-induced bone impairment is often not adjusted for different confounding variables that could potentially affect bone health, and exposure to PPIs was reported using medical prescriptions without adherence evaluation. The mechanisms of the PPI-related bone damage are still unclear, but impaired micronutrients absorption, hypergastrinemia, and increased secretion of histamine may play a role. Clinicians should pay attention when prescribing PPIs to subjects with a preexistent high risk of fractures and consider antiosteoporotic drugs to manage this additive effect on the bone. However, further studies are needed to clarify PPIs action on the bone.

The therapeutic importance of acid-base balance

Baking soda and vinegar have been used as home remedies for generations and today we are only a mouse-click away from claims that baking soda, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar are miracles cures for everything from cancer to COVID-19. Despite these specious claims, the therapeutic value of controlling acid-base balance is indisputable and is the basis of Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments for constipation, epilepsy, metabolic acidosis, and peptic ulcers. In this narrative review, we present evidence in support of the current and potential therapeutic value of countering local and systemic acid-base imbalances, several of which do in fact involve the administration of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). Furthermore, we discuss the side effects of pharmaceuticals on acid-base balance as well as the influence of acid-base status on the pharmacokinetic properties of drugs. Our review considers all major organ systems as well as information relevant to several clinical specialties such as anesthesiology, infectious disease, oncology, dentistry, and surgery.

Effect of proton pump inhibitors on bone mineral density: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

Despite the fact that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the most prescribed medications, several epidemiological studies have reported many adverse effects related to their long-term usage. Nevertheless, there were inconsistent findings in the literature with regard to PPI use and bone mineral density (BMD) change. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the association between the use of PPIs and change in BMD. The PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane and CINAHL databases were searched up to March 2019. Ten studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria (4761 cases and 30,809 controls), from which the mean difference and mean annualized percent change in BMD were pooled using RevMan 5.3.5 The results showed no statistically significant association between PPI users and non-users in mean annualized percent change in BMD (0.06; 95% CI -0.07, 0.18) with moderate heterogeneity (I2: 63%). There was a statistically significant reduction in the mean BMD difference among PPI users (-0.03; 95% CI -0.04, -0.01) with no substantial heterogeneity (I2: 26%). This meta-analysis reported inconsistent results regarding the use of PPIs and BMD loss. Thus, the effect of PPIs on BMD needs to be elucidated by other studies, and healthcare providers should prescribe PPIs with caution considering their unfavorable consequences on bone health.

[Updating in prescription of proton pump inhibitors. What to do and what not to do]

INTRODUCTION

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the most prescribed pharmacological subgroup of the National Health System and their use has been related to possible potentially serious adverse effects.

OBJECTIVE

To review the current indications for treatment with PPIs as well as the data related to their safety, in order to promote their adecuate use.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A review of the literature focused on the following topics has been carried out: a) molecules and mechanism of action; b) current indications for treatment and adherence to them; c) adverse effects related to its use; d) drug interactions; e) alternatives in deprescription.

RESULTS

The current indications have not changed substantially in recent years and are well established, however, there is a high percentage of inappropriate prescription, mainly in individuals with low or no risk.

CONCLUSIONS

PPIs are safe drugs and generally well tolerated and their benefits are higher than possible adverse effects. Adhering to evidence-based recommendations represents the only rational approach to safe and effective therapy.

Different elemental infant formulas show equivalent phosphorus and calcium bioavailability in healthy volunteers

Retrospective chart reviews have reported hypophosphatemia associated with elemental formula use in infants and children with systemic disease involving multiple diagnoses. The present study aims to evaluate the bioavailability of phosphorus from 2 commercial elemental formulas and to test our hypothesis of bioequivalence of the 2 products in healthy volunteers receiving gastric acid-suppressive medication. A single-center, double-blind, randomized, cross-over study was conducted in healthy volunteers with esomeprazole-induced hypochlorhydria. After a standardized low phosphorus meal followed by overnight fasting, subjects consumed 1 gram of phosphorus in a single oral dose of 1217 kcal of Product A (Neocate) or Product B (Elecare). The alternate product was given following a 1-week washout period. Blood and urine were collected at baseline and different time-points for up to 6 hours after product consumption. Area-under-the-curve (AUC) and peak values (C_peak) for serum phosphate and calcium and urinary creatinine-corrected phosphate and calcium were assessed for bioequivalence of Products A and B. Results show that the geometric mean ratio (GMR) and 90% CI for serum phosphate were 1.041 (0.998-1.086) and 1.020 (0.963-1.080) for AUC_0-360 and C_peak, respectively, meeting the predetermined criteria for bioequivalence. Urinary creatinine-corrected phosphate followed a similar pattern after intake of Product A and B, but did not reach bioequivalence criteria (GMR: AUC_70-370 = 1.105 (0.918-1.330); C_peak = 1.182 (1.040-1.343)). Serum calcium concentrations (GMR: AUC_0-360 = 1.002 (0.996-1.009); C_peak = 0.991 (0.983-0.999)) and urinary creatinine-corrected calcium excretion (GMR: AUC_70-370 = 1.117 (1.023-1.219); C_peak = 1.157 (1.073-1.247)) demonstrated bioequivalence of the products. In conclusion, both elemental infant formulas showed equivalent serum phosphorus and calcium bioavailability in healthy volunteers even if combined with treatment with acid-suppressive medication.

Helicobacter pylori Related Diseases and Osteoporotic Fractures (Narrative Review)

Osteoporosis (OP) and osteoporotic fractures (OFs) are common multifactorial and heterogenic disorders of increasing incidence. Helicobacter pylori (H.p.) colonizes the stomach approximately in half of the world's population, causes gastroduodenal diseases and is prevalent in numerous extra-digestive diseases known to be associated with OP/OF. The studies regarding relationship between H.p. infection (HPI) and OP/OFs are inconsistent. The current review summarizes the relevant literature on the potential role of HPI in OP, falls and OFs and highlights the reasons for controversies in the publications. In the first section, after a brief overview of HPI biological features, we analyze the studies evaluating the association of HPI and bone status. The second part includes data on the prevalence of OP/OFs in HPI-induced gastroduodenal diseases (peptic ulcer, chronic/atrophic gastritis and cancer) and the effects of acid-suppressive drugs. In the next section, we discuss the possible contribution of HPI-associated extra-digestive diseases and medications to OP/OF, focusing on conditions affecting both bone homeostasis and predisposing to falls. In the last section, we describe clinical implications of accumulated data on HPI as a co-factor of OP/OF and present a feasible five-step algorithm for OP/OF risk assessment and management in regard to HPI, emphasizing the importance of an integrative (but differentiated) holistic approach. Increased awareness about the consequences of HPI linked to OP/OF can aid early detection and management. Further research on the HPI-OP/OF relationship is needed to close current knowledge gaps and improve clinical management of both OP/OF and HPI-related disorders.

Evidence-based application of explicit criteria to assess the appropriateness of geriatric prescriptions at admission and hospital stay

BACKGROUND

Inappropriate prescribing in the elderly is a critical issue in primary care, causing a higher risk of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) and resulting in major patient safety concerns. At international level, many tools have been developed to identify Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIMs).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was the application of Beers, Screening Tool of Older People's Prescriptions (STOPP)/Screening Tool to Alert to Right Treatment (START) and Improving Prescribing in the Elderly Tool (IPET) criteria as key tool to improve the quality of prescribing.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted using the aforementioned criteria. Two different cohorts of elderly patients were enrolled between January 2015 and December 2016, 1800 at admission and 1466 at hospital stay. The index of each criterion divided by politherapy were correlated with comorbidities (Pearson correlation). A comparison was made between admission and hospital stay through a Student's t test of the average of the index.

RESULTS

The Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) were the most prescribed PIMs according Beers criteria in both patient cohorts (56%). The most detected drug-drug and drug-disease interactions at admission and at hospital stay were 3 or more drugs active on the Central Nervous System (CNS) as they can predispose to fall-risk. The most detected PIMs with STOPP criteria at admission were PPIs administered for more than 8 weeks. Inhaled β2-agonists or antimuscarinics were the most prescribed Potential Prescription Omissions (PPOs) according to START criteria. Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in patients with high blood pressure were the most detected PIMs according to IPET criteria during hospital stay. A significant correlation between the comorbidities and the all index at hospital stay, while at admission there was no significant correlation for Beers and IPET index.

CONCLUSION

The prescriptive criteria were a useful tool for assessing the quality of prescriptions in the geriatric population and identifying their critical issues.

Does the Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors Increase the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Epidemiologic Studies

Background: One of the most frequently used medications for treating gastrointestinal disorders is proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which reportedly has potential adverse effects. Although the relationship between the use of PPIs and the risk of pancreatic cancer has been extensively investigated, the results remain inconsistent. Hence, this meta-analysis aimed to evaluate such relationship. Methods: We searched for literature and subsequently included 10 studies (seven case–control and three cohort studies; 948,782 individuals). The pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for pancreatic cancer were estimated using a random-effects model. We also conducted sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis. Results: The pooled OR of the meta-analysis was 1.698 (95% CI: 1.200–2.402, p = 0.003), with a substantial heterogeneity (I² = 98.75%, p < 0.001). Even when studies were excluded one by one, the pooled OR remained statistically significant. According to the stratified subgroup analyses, PPI use, and pancreatic cancer incidence were positively associated, regardless of the study design, quality of study, country, and PPI type. Conclusion: PPI use may be associated with the increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Hence, caution is needed when using PPIs among patients with a high risk of pancreatic cancer.

Potential proton pump inhibitor-related adverse effects

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one of the most common medications taken by patients worldwide. PPIs are used to treat acid-related disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease, Helicobacter pylori infection, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug/stress ulceration. For some of these diseases, long-term treatment is necessary. With such prolonged use, concern and investigation into potential adverse effects has increased. In addition, data are available regarding potential anticancer effects of PPIs, especially regarding solid tumors. The aim of this review is to assess the literature on PPIs with regard to common concerns, such as drug-drug interactions, the intestinal microbiome, dementia and central nervous system disease, and osteoporosis, as well as to highlight potential negative and positive impacts of the drug in cancer.

Effects of Calcium and Annatto Tocotrienol Supplementation on Bone Loss Induced by Pantoprazole in Male Rats

Purpose

Prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors may cause bone loss, and limited therapeutic agents are available to prevent this skeletal side effect. The combination of annatto tocotrienol, a bone anabolic agent, with calcium presents a novel strategy to prevent bone loss caused by proton pump inhibitors. This study aims to compare the effects of calcium alone and in combination with annatto tocotrienol or vitamin D₃ (Caltrate Plus) in preventing bone loss caused by pantoprazole.

Methods

Three-month-old Sprague Dawley male rats (n=30) were randomised into five groups (n=6/group). Bone loss was induced by pantoprazole (3 mg/kg p.o.) in four groups, and they were treated concurrently with either calcium carbonate (77 mg p.o.), calcium carbonate (77 mg p.o.) plus annatto tocotrienol (60 mg/kg p.o.) or Caltrate Plus (31 mg p.o.) for 60 days. The rats were euthanised at the end of the experiment, and their femurs were harvested for X-ray micro-computed tomography, bone cellular histomorphometry and bone mechanical strength analysis.

Results

Pantoprazole caused significant deterioration of trabecular bone microstructures but did not affect other skeletal indices. Calcium supplementation with or without annatto tocotrienol prevented the deterioration of trabecular microstructures at the femur but did not improve other skeletal indices. Annatto tocotrienol did not enhance the skeletal actions of calcium, whereas Caltrate Plus did not affect the bone health indices in these rats.

Conclusion

Calcium supplementation per se can prevent the deterioration of bone trabecular microstructures in rats receiving long-term treatment of pantoprazole.

Association between proton pump inhibitor use and risk of fracture: A population-based case-control study

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to reconfirm the association between the risk of fracture and proton pump inhibitor use and to establish evidence for defining a high-risk group of patients among proton pump inhibitor users.

Methods

A nested case-control study was performed using data from the National Health Insurance Sharing Service database from the period January 2007 to December 2017. The study population included elderly women aged ≥65 years with claims for peptic ulcer or gastro-esophageal reflux disease. The cases were all incidental osteoporotic fractures, and up to two controls were matched to each case by age, osteoporosis, and Charlson comorbidity index. Conditional logistic regression was used to calculate the adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

A total of 21,754 cases were identified, and 43,508 controls were matched to the cases. The adjusted odds ratio of osteoporotic fractures related to the use of proton pump inhibitors was 1.15 (95% CI: 1.11–1.20). There was a statistically significant interaction between proton pump inhibitor and bisphosphonate use (p<0.01). The risk of fracture in patients using proton pump inhibitors was 1.15 (95% CI: 1.08–1.92) in bisphosphonate users and 1.11 (95% CI: 1.03–1.20) in bisphosphonate non-users.

Conclusion

Concomitant use of bisphosphonates and proton pump inhibitors will likely increase the risk of osteoporotic fractures in women aged 65 and over, and caution should be exercised in this high-risk group of patients.

The Clinical Characteristics of Fractures in Pediatric Patients Exposed to Proton Pump Inhibitors

OBJECTIVES

There are increasing concerns regarding proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and the risk of fractures in adults. Few studies have evaluated this risk among pediatric patients. This study examined fractures and fracture location among pediatric patients exposed to PPI compared with those without documented exposure.

STUDY DESIGN

Encounters for patients 6 months to 15.5 years were identified between July 1, 2011 to December 31, 2015 in the Pediatric Hospital Information System database. Exclusion criteria was applied for chronic illnesses, conditions or medications predisposing to fracture. Encounters were classified as PPI encounters if a charge for PPI was documented. PPI encounters were propensity matched to non-PPI encounters. Following initial encounter, patients were evaluated over a 2-year period for hospitalizations resulting from fracture.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant higher rate of fractures among the PPI-exposed group (1.4% vs 1.2%, P = 0.019). Adjusting for remaining differences in sex, race, encounter type, payer, and resource intensity after matching, the difference remained statistically significant (P = 0.017) with an adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) of 1.2 (1.0--1.4). Upper extremity was the most common location for fracture; however, the PPI cohort was more likely to suffer from lower extremity, rib, and spinal fractures (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests an increased risk of fracture among pediatric patients taking PPI. Among patients hospitalized with a fracture, those with PPI exposure had a higher rate of lower extremity, rib, and spine fractures compared with controls. This appeared to be a class effect not related to individual PPI agent.

Pharmacological treatments for eosinophilic esophagitis: current options and emerging therapies

Introduction: The epidemiology of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) has increased rapidly to represent a common cause of chronic and recurrent esophageal symptoms. Current treatment options have limitations so the development of novel therapies is a matter of growing interest.Areas covered: This article provides an up-to-date discussion of current therapies and investigational options for EoE. Established anti-inflammatory treatments for EoE at present include dietary therapy, proton pump inhibitors and swallowed topic steroids, which should be combined with endoscopic dilation in case of strictures. Refractoriness, high recurrence rates, and need for long-term therapies have promoted the investigation of novel, esophageal-targeted formulas of topic corticosteroids, and monoclonal antibodies (including mepolizumab, reslizumab, QAX576, RPC4046, dupilumab, omalizumab, infliximab, and vedolizumab) for EoE, with some having been demonstrated as effective and safe in the short term. Several additional promising therapies are also discussed.Expert opinion: Several therapeutic targets have shown efficacy and will be approved to treat EoE, especially corticosteroid-sparing options and those for patients with multiple Th2-associated diseases. Personalized therapeutic strategies for initial and maintenance treatments of EoE must be rationally designed, to reduce the burden of disease and answer meaningfully the needs of all stakeholders involved in EoE.

Diabetes Mellitus and Osteoporosis Correlation: Challenges and Hopes

Diabetes and osteoporosis are two common diseases with different complications. Despite different therapeutic strategies, managing these diseases and reducing their burden have not been satisfactory, especially when they appear one after the other. In this review, we aimed to clarify the similarity, common etiology and possible common adjunctive therapies of these two major diseases and designate the known molecular pattern observed in them. Based on different experimental findings, we want to illuminate that interestingly similar pathways lead to diabetes and osteoporosis. Meanwhile, there are a few drugs involved in the treatment of both diseases, which most of the time act in the same line but sometimes with opposing results. Considering the correlation between diabetes and osteoporosis, more efficient management of both diseases, in conditions of concomitant incidence or cause and effect condition, is required.

Drugs Causing Bone Loss

Drugs may cause bone loss by lowering sex steroid levels (e.g., aromatase inhibitors in breast cancer, GnRH agonists in prostate cancer, or depot medroxyprogestone acetate - DMPA), interfere with vitamin D levels (liver inducing anti-epileptic drugs), or directly by toxic effects on bone cells (chemotherapy, phenytoin, or thiazolidinedions, which diverts mesenchymal stem cells from forming osteoblasts to forming adipocytes). However, besides effects on the mineralized matrix, interactions with collagen and other parts of the unmineralized matrix may decrease bone biomechanical competence in a manner that may not correlate with bone mineral density (BMD) measured by dual energy absorptiometry (DXA).Some drugs and drug classes may decrease BMD like the thiazolidinediones and consequently increase fracture risk. Other drugs such as glucocorticoids may decrease BMD, and thus increase fracture risk. However, glucocorticoids may also interfere with the unmineralized matrix leading to an increase in fracture risk, not mirrored in BMD changes. Some drugs such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), paracetamol, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may not per se be associated with bone loss, but fracture risk may be increased, possibly stemming from an increased risk of falls stemming from effects on postural balance mediated by effects on the central nervous system or cardiovascular system.This paper performs a systematic review of drugs inducing bone loss or associated with fracture risk. The chapter is organized by the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification.