Proton Pump Inhibitors Increase Risk of Hip Fractures, Says FDA

Washington, DCPeople who take medication with proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid are at increased of fractures, according to the US Food and Drug Administration.

The federal agency warned that high doses or long-term use of proton pump inhibitors can increase the risk of wrist, spine and hip fractures.

Dr. Joyce Korvick, deputy director for safety in the FDA's Division of Gastroenterology Products, told United Press International that the prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors can lead to an increased risk of bone fractures.

"Because these products are used by a great number of people, it's important for the public to be aware of this possible increased risk and, when prescribing proton pump inhibitors, healthcare professionals should consider whether a lower dose or shorter duration of therapy would adequately treat the patient's condition," she told the news source.

Both the over-the-counter and prescription varieties of proton pump inhibitors reduce the amount of acid in the stomach.

Another proton pump inhibitor side effect is the development of Clostridium difficile infection, which can cause life-threatening diarrhea, according to Harvard Medical School.