Researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine have discovered evidence that stomach acid suppression from pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs like Nexium can lead to liver injury and progression of chronic liver disease.
About Nexium
Nexium is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which is taken to relieve the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), commonly referred to as acid reflux. PPIs, such as Nexium, work by blocking the release of stomach acid. Then, the drug temporarily coats the esophagus to prevent damage.
The FDA has not approved Nexium for long-term use, and studies confirm doctors shouldn’t have written 70% of PPI prescriptions. It is one of the most common drugs on the market. However, it is not a “healer” drug and should not be used for preventive care.
Around 10% of Americans use PPIs like Nexium, which brings seven times higher risk of developing chronic liver disease.
Nexium & Chronic Liver Disease
Chronic liver disease is the 12th leading cause of death worldwide and that number is rapidly increasing. PPIs, which include brand names such as Prilosec, Nexium and Prevacid, are the most common doctor-prescribed medications in the world. They are also relatively inexpensive medications, costing around $7. The longer the use the more costly it becomes. Americans spend around $11 billion each year on PPIs.
California Nexium Study
The researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that mice with gastric acid suppression developed alterations in their gut. Specifically, this bacteria named Enterococcus. These changes caused an environment favorable to liver inflammation and liver injury. It also increased the progression of liver disease in the mice used during the experiment.
Senior author of the study, Bernd Schnabl, MD, associate professor of gastroenterology at UC San Diego School of Medicine noted that the rise of chronic liver disease is related to more people using PPIs. “We believe clinicians should consider withholding medications that suppress gastric acid unless there is a strong medical indication,” Schnabl said.
If Nexium Injured You
Many think taking over-the-counter medication means it is safe. This is not true. PPIs like Nexium bring the serious risk of kidney or liver injury. If you or someone you love suffered kidney or liver damage after using a PPI like Nexium, Prevacid or Prilosec, you deserve compensation. Although no amount of money will change the fact that you have suffered a serious injury as a result of manufacturer irresponsibility, compensation will help offset your current and future medical costs, as well as provide for the pain and suffering you have experienced. By filing, you may also help protect others from needless distress.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.