In 2006, an alarming report was released that linked antacid drugs, such as Prevacid, Prilosec, Aciphex, Nexium and Protonix, with an increased risk of hip fractures. These strong antacid medications are also called proton pump inhibitors.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that proton pump inhibitors had the potential to create a higher risk of hip fractures by as much as 260 percent. Proton pump inhibitors are used to treat gastroesphageal reflux disease and are some of the most common medications used today.
The biggest risk is for the group aged 50 and older who take acid suppression medications on a chronic basis. The risk is even higher for people who have to take a high dosage of these antacids.
The University of Pennsylvania study reviewed 13,556 hip fracture cases and compared them to 135,386 healthy individuals, all over the age of 50. What researchers discovered was distressing. People who had taken a proton pump inhibitor for more than one year increased the chances of hip fracture by 44 percent. The news was even worse for people who have to take high doses. The risk of hip fracture was found to be 2.6 times greater for patients taking high doses over a long period.
Some experts feel that these antacids are prescribed too often and may not be medically necessary. Doctors are believed to be giving patients these medications without making sure it is benefiting them.
If you or a family member has sustained a hip fracture and you believe that a medication such as Prevacid, Prilosec or other antacid may be to blame, you should contact a Florida mass tort lawyer at the Law Offices of Lilly, O’Toole & Brown at (863) 683-1111 for legal advice. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries.