Proton pump inhibitors have been the subject of mass injury claims and lawsuits for some time now. That’s because mass tort lawyers and their clients have linked the medication with some severe adverse side effects. The significant defendants in these mass tort suits are the major manufacturers of PPIs — Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Proctor and Gamble.
According to a report, PPIs are the most widely prescribed class of medications globally. They’re effective heartburn medicines that treat GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and stomach ulcers. In addition, they reduce and block the production of stomach acids, allowing damaged esophageal tissue time to heal. Common PPIs include Nexium, Protonix, Prilosec, and Prevacid.
While PPIs are more effective than their closest alternatives (H2 receptor blockers), the concerns about their serious side effects remain. So, if you’ve been using PPIs or want to treat heartburn, you’ll want to know if there are other alternatives. This article will provide answers to your worries.
What Are the Risks Associated With Proton Pump Inhibitors?
Proton pump inhibitor users have complained of the following health complications associated with the drug use:
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Stomach Cancer
PPI stomach or gastric cancer can develop from long-term use of PPIs. The risk is higher in individuals with a history of h.pylori infections and other underlying conditions. Old age can also be a risk factor for gastric cancer.
Stomach cancer usually starts in the stomach’s inner lining, growing into a tumor and stretching out to the stomach’s walls. Stomach cancer is life-threatening and difficult to treat, especially in advanced stages.
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Kidney Issues
Our kidneys help us maintain fluid balance and flush out toxic wastes from our bodies. Unfortunately, PPIs can affect this vital body organ’s functioning. Kidney complications can cause swelling, shortness of breath, and nausea. The affected patient will require dialysis and a kidney transplant in many cases. Kidney failure is life-threatening too.
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Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. This condition can either be acute or chronic. Fortunately, most PPI-induced pancreatitis is acute and can heal after some days.
However, acute pancreatitis can be traumatizing and highly discomforting. Patients usually complain of severe abdominal and back pains, fast heart rate, and fever. Complications from pancreatitis can lead to pancreatic cancer.
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Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
PPIs can cause the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). It’s a rare disorder that affects the skin, eyes, mucus membrane, and genitals. Symptoms of the condition include burning eyes, sore throat, and fever. It’s a medical emergency and requires urgent medical attention.
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Liver Complications
PPIs may also affect your liver by altering the composition of gut bacteria that promotes liver disease. The liver helps digest food and, like the kidneys, remove toxins. Any damage to this organ may be life-threatening.
Are There Alternative Remedies for Treating GERD?
Apart from PPIs, the following reliefs are available for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease:
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Non-Medical Options
There are numerous natural options for treating GERD. They include acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and melatonin. In addition, various types of herbal remedies can help. They include baking soda, marshmallow root, almonds, chamomile, etc.
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Lifestyle Changes
Altering your lifestyle can help to treat GERD. For example, you can relax more, avoid tobacco, exercise regularly, and quit smoking. Losing weight, avoiding tight-fitted clothing, and sleeping on your left side can help too.
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Cytoprotective Medications
Cytoprotective drugs like misoprostol and sucralfate form a protective coating around the stomach and small intestine. However, misoprostol is dangerous for pregnant patients, so you must seek directions from your physician before changing medications.
What if Proton Pump Inhibitors Caused My Stomach Cancer?
If you believe that proton pump inhibitors caused your stomach cancer or other unexpected health complications, see your lawyer immediately. Your attorney will access your case and determine if you have a viable cause of action. If you have a valid claim, your legal representatives can file a lawsuit on your behalf. Upon a successful compensation claim, you can recover medical bills, lost wages, and specific non-economic damages.
Contact an Experienced Mass Tort Lawyer ASAP!
The risks associated with proton pump inhibitor use are life-threatening and severe. Fortunately, there are natural, medical, and surgical alternatives to PPIs that you can consider. However, be sure to consult with your doctor before trying out any drugs.
If you suspect that proton pump inhibitors caused your stomach cancer or other severe health complications, speak with an attorney immediately. Our mass tort attorneys at Rueb Stoller Daniel, LLP, can help you file your claim and represent your interests in a lawsuit. We’ll demand no financial obligations from you till you settle your claims. Connect with us now.
