Understanding Proton Pump Inhibitors and Their Benefits
PPIs is an abbreviation for Proton Pump Inhibitors.
These drugs affect the secretion because they are selective for the target, in this case, the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme in the stomach lining. It has been discovered that reducing some levels of acid found in the stomach can help cure most stomach-related diseases.
Common PPIs include
Omeprazole (Risek)
Esomeprazole (Nexum)
Lansoprazole (Selanz SR)
Pantoprazole (Zopent)
Rabeprazole (Rabecid)
These drugs affect the secretion because they are selective for the target, in this case, the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme in the stomach lining.
Benefits and Uses
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):
Since it is acidic, it is used in cases of GERD to prevent the excess secretion of acid and healing of peptic Ulcers.
Erosive Esophagitis: PPIs are therefore helpful in minimizing irritation or injury to the esophagus by the acidic juices produced in the stomach.
Why They Are Available Over-the-Counter (OTC)
Reflux/Heartburns: PPIs should eliminate Reflux or acid indigestion, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is relatively mild to moderate and does not require prescription.
Ease of Access: That is why it is more advantageous that drugs should be sold without a prescription since a person can manage something without going to a doctor.
Safety Profile: In general, it should be mentioned that PPIs are safe in the general population if used as prescribed and required for the therapy, which should last not more than 2-8 weeks.
Benefits of OTC PPIs
Temporary Solution: All the products let the users find a solution to every one of the problems or symptoms they are experiencing without having to go to a doctor.
Self-Management: Moderate or occasional symptoms make a person capable of independent country governance.
This means that the cases of people who can have only mild or occasional Palin symptoms can govern independently.
Cost-Effective: OTC options might be costlier than prescription drugs, cost might hence fall within the reach of the user who cannot afford the health insurance.
However, as it is a drug that could help to help stomach acid down and as a cure for heartburn after some time, PPIs, when taken without the doctor’s prescription, are risky and do not yield any positive results since they affect the nutrient levels in the body (magnesium, vitamin B 12), weak bones, affect the kidney and some types of infections.
Therefore, the use of the products should strictly adhere to the recommended dosage by the manufacturer or the doctor, especially in cases of chronic diseases or those who have a sedentary lifestyle.
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