Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
Proton pump inhibitors (or PPIs) are a class of medications that are commonly used to treat
heartburn, gastroesophageal disease (or GERD), and peptic ulcer disease. PPIs work by stopping
the action of certain acid making cells which decreases the amount of acid made by the stomach.
PPIs share a few common side effect including headache, nausea, and upset stomach. Some
examples of PPIs include omeprazole, the generic name for Prilosec, and rabeprazole, the generic
name for Aciphex. Most PPIs are taken on an empty stomach about half an hour prior to
eating to maximize their effect. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking PPIs for
more than a few weeks as doing so can sometimes put you at an increased risk for bone weakness
and infections. It is always a good idea to ask questions about your medication if you
are unsure or if you experience something out of the ordinary. Use these medications
only as prescribed. To keep up to date with medication information, sign up for RxWiki
Notify.