Prilosec and other proton pump inhibitors help treat ulcers and acid reflux by inhibiting stomach acid production.

As popular as Prilosec has been, studies suggest it may be linked to a host of different Prilosec adverse side effects.

Prilosec adverse side effects can include low magnesium levels in the blood, indicated by an irregular heartbeat, persistent muscle spasms, or even seizures.

Anyone who has taken a proton pump inhibitor for three or more years might show signs of a vitamin B-12 deficiency. Symptoms include excessive weakness, a sore tongue, and tingling in the hands or feet.

By reducing the amount of acid in a person’s stomach, Prilosec may reduce the overall absorption and blood concentration of certain other medications.

Studies also show that by inhibiting adequate elimination of the drugs through the liver, Prilosec may cause increased concentrations in the blood of diazepam (Valium), warfarin (Coumadin), and phenytoin (Dilantin).

Severe diarrhea caused by a specific bacteria known as C. diff is also among possible Prilosec adverse side effects. C. diff diarrhea might include stomach cramping, fever, and blood or mucus in the stool.

Doctors theorize that stomach acid that would neutralize the C. diff bacteria is absent when Prilosec is present, allowing the C. diff bacteria to thrive and cause severe intestinal discomfort.

Prilosec Associated with Premature Cell Aging

New research indicates that Prilosec and other proton pump inhibitors may, in effect, prematurely age vascular cells. The American Heart Association published the study in the May 2016 edition of its online journal Circulation Research.

Researchers from the Houston Methodist Research Institute’s Cardiovascular Sciences department looked at the actions of PPIs like Prilosec.

These medicines work by inhibiting the proton pump of a certain cell called the parietal cell, which is responsible for the final step of acid secretion in the stomach.

This is how PPIs like Prilosec can control symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn and GERD.

Researchers cultured human endothelial cells and added esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor. Endothelial cells make up the endothelium, which serves as the inner lining of blood vessels.

The researchers reported finding that endolethial cell function was impaired, affecting the lining of the blood cells and causing premature aging of cells. Researchers suggested that a public warning may be warranted based on the study’s findings.

Prilosec Adverse Side Effects Prompt Lawsuits

Patients who suffer from Prilosec adverse side effects may be in a position to take legal action against the drug’s manufacturer. Manufacturers of Prilosec and other PPIs are facing litigation from patients who are suffering from kidney failure and other issues after taking these drugs.

Plaintiffs in claims like these generally allege they relied on the company’s assurance that the drug in question is safe and effective.

They claim the makers of Prilosec failed to adequately warn them about the associated risks, and that if they had been properly warned, they would have avoided those risks by avoiding Prilosec.