Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs – acid blocking medications prescribed for reflux and GERD) are linked to increased rates of acute gastroenteritis in the winter months when enteric viruses are at their peak. In a cohort matched study containing 233,596 patients receiving proton pump therapy and 626,887 not receiving the therapy, researchers found that the PPI group had 1.81 times higher instances of infection. JAMA Takeaway: Previous studies have linked long-term PPI use to a host of health complications, including dysbiosis, kidney damage, cardiovascular disease, declining bone health, and even an increased risk of death. If you are taking a PPI and are considering tapering off the drug, check out our article on this subject and work with your healthcare professional for support to be sure this is the right decision for you and your condition.
