Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors including Nexium may lead to acute viral gastroenteritis, commonly known as the stomach flu, according to research published in Medscape in November 2019.

Previous drug studies have also linked Nexium to side effects including kidney damage and stomach cancer.

Recent research indicates link between proton pump inhibitors and stomach flu

The recent research into the side effects of PPIs reportedly indicates that in addition to the previously known side effects of these drugs such as kidney damage and stomach cancer, Nexium may also lead patients to develop the stomach flu.

According to the recent report, one out of every 153 patients who take PPIs during the winter months may expect to suffer from acute viral gastroenteritis. Patients who take PPIs may be at additional risk for developing the stomach flu due to their reduced stomach acid levels. These low acid levels may make the stomach more susceptible to viruses.

Symptoms of viral gastroenteritis may include watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea or vomiting, fever, muscle aches, headaches, and dehydration.

Patients over the age of 45 are at an additionally high risk for experiencing the stomach flu due to their PPI usage. The researchers recommend that in some cases, patients may be able to take other drugs instead of PPIs. Additionally, limiting long-term prescriptions may reduce the likelihood of patients experiencing side effects, as overuse has been tied to an increase in kidney disease.

About proton pump inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors are drugs meant to treat the symptoms associated with conditions such as acid reflux, stomach ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and erosive esophagitis.

Proton pump inhibitors work by blocking an enzyme in the body responsible for acid production. This reduces the production of acid in the stomach and eases the symptoms of acid reflux and ulcers. However, these PPI drugs have been linked with several serious side effects, including kidney damage and stomach cancer.

Researchers determined that the PPI Nexium was linked to stomach cancer at twice the rate of other types of heartburn medication.

Nexium linked to stomach cancer, kidney disease, adverse health effects

In addition to the increased risk of contracting acute viral gastroenteritis, PPI drugs like Nexium have been linked to other usage risks including osteoporosis-related fractures and bone issues, kidney disease and damage, vitamin B12 deficiency, and stomach cancer. The research indicating that Nexium linked to stomach cancer estimated that people who took PPIs were two to eight times more likely to develop the cancer than people who did not take PPIs for the treatment of their heartburn or acid reflux.

If you have suffered from PPI side effects including acute viral gastroenteritis, kidney damage, or stomach failure while taking Nexium or another proton pump inhibitor, you may be eligible to hire a qualified attorney and file a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer of the drug. Victims who file lawsuits may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, the cost of medical care, loss of income or earning capacity, and pain and suffering.