According to the Veterans Administration, between 16 and 17 percent of patients in the VA health care system use proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as Prilosec (omeprazole) and Nexium (esomeprazole) regularly for gastrointestinal issues. They are among the most frequently-prescribed medications among veterans, accounting for almost $50 million in VA medication costs every year.

The VA now fears these medications are being over-prescribed. There are now efforts to reduce the number of PPI prescriptions being written by VA physicians, who have been seeing more and more indications of a link between PPI and kidney damage and other harmful long-term effects of these medications.

 What Is the VA Doing to Cut Back on Prescribing PPIs?

The new VA effort to cut back on the use of PPIs has been dubbed the National Randomized Proton Pump Inhibitor De-prescribing Program or RaPPID. Based on studies, the VA estimates that up to 60 percent of those who regularly take PPIs have no demonstrated medical need. This research indicates that as many as one-third of these patients could reduce or eliminate PPI use altogether. In order to address this issue, the program is looking to educate VA physicians on best practices, including when and how to prescribe PPIs – and more importantly, when not to prescribe them.

 How Does a PPI Work?

PPI refers to Proton Pump Inhibitors. They work by shutting down a mechanism found in the cells lining the stomach (parietal cells), known as the gastric proton pump. This is the final step in the production of stomach acid, which is why these medications are so effective. However, this effect on parietal cells is permanent. While PPIs are reasonably safe when used judiciously and for a short period of time, long-term use and excessive dosage have been associated with a number of serious and even life-threatening side effects. At least one study found that long-term, frequent PPI use can even cause the same disorders they were intended to prevent, such as esophageal cancer. Other dangers of PPI overuse include bone fractures, dementia, premature aging and a connection between the use of a PPI and kidney damage or even failure.

Research scientist Dr. Sameer Saini, head of the RaPPID research team, says the objective is to “…understand the intended and unintended effects of PPIs and ensure that we maximize the learning opportunity for veterans and the VA health system.” The hope is that VA physicians will have a better understanding of the risks and benefits of PPIs, as well as how to undertake additional programs to cut back on “low value clinical practices” going forward.

The VA’s current efforts to cut back on PPI prescriptions is part of a growing trend that has been gathering momentum over the past few years in the medical profession, as doctors and patients have come to the realization that more is not necessarily better when it comes to prescriptions – and can actually be harmful.

Can I Seek Compensation?

If you or a loved one have experienced negative health effects, including issues with using a PPI and kidney damage, you may be eligible to seek legal help.  Top Class Actions can connect you with experienced attorneys.