Ppi Forever?

[Threetimesacharm 1,400]

How long can we safely take a PPI like prilosec or pepsid? I really find they curb my hunger and feel much better taking them. Can we take them long term or should we stop say at 3 months/6 months?

[lollyfidy1965 402]

If you're getting "hunger" relief by taking a PPI, I'd bet your "hunger" is really acid reflux.

I'm taking liquid Zantac (twice daily), and a Prevacid solutab (once daily). Prevacid is a PPI, as is Prilosec, I believe. Both Zantac and Pepcid are H2 blockers...a completely different class of drug, with a different set of possible side effects.

Here's a little blurb about Prevacid:

Prevacid 30 mg daily dosing can suppress 99% of the gastric acid production. Due to the decreased level of gastric acid while on Prevacid, the absorption of some of the essential nutrients may be interfered. For example, Iron absorption is reduced because its absorption is facilitated by gastric acid. Whether you have Iron deficiency or not can be tested easily by measuring of the blood iron and its storage levels Currently there is no evidence for adverse effects with long term use of Prevacid, although atrophic gastritis (thinning of the stomach lining) may occur in some cases

Personally, I'm happy to take my "cocktail" for as long as I need it. I was miserable, following my surgery, because of the acid reflux (which I'd never had before). Taking my meds, religiously, keeps me, and my sleeve, a very happy camper!

[Threetimesacharm 1,400]

Thanks Lolly for the information. You are right if it makes us feel great then..........I just know I feel so much better when I take it.

[pomeerin 44]

Could either of you describe exactly how post-surgery reflux feels? Basically, I'm wondering how I'll be able to tell it apart from normal hunger.

[delta_girl 931]

My understanding of these is that their effectiveness declines after about 3 months, so you should switch them out. Someone have details on this?

[amitch17 17]

I've been taking nexium for 6 years now with no issues. I figure once I'm sleeved I will most likely continue to take it.