The Stanford Center for Biomedical Informatics, in a peer-reviewed study, found proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as Nexium, to be linked to an increased risk of myocardial infarction. The results of this study, which was performed by collecting data on use of the drug by the general population, found that users of Nexium, and other proton pump inhibitors, had an increased risk of a myocardial infarction, more commonly known as a heart attack, by 16 to 21 percent.
Since some proton pump inhibitors are readily available over-the-counter and are ubiquitous in television ads, the danger is even greater. Over-the-counter medicines are not subject to a physician’s approval and the manner in which they interact with other drugs is another serious concern.
The link between the drugs, known as proton pump inhibitors, and heart attacks is strong enough that “we do think patients should think about their risks and benefits and should discuss their risk with their doctors,” said Nicholas J. Leeper, an assistant professor of cardiovascular medicine and vascular surgery at Stanford, and one of the authors of the study. The danger extends to people outside high-risk groups, such as the elderly.
Nigam Shah, an assistant professor for biomedical informatics and the lead author of the research noted that those who are taking these over-the-counter PPIs for more than two weeks should immediately inform their doctor.
The research theorizes that proton pump inhibitors may reduce production of nitric oxide from cells that line the inside of the circulatory system, including the heart. Lower levels of nitric oxide have long been associated with cardiovascular problems, Leeper said. Stanford researchers are testing the theory in the lab.
Leeper concluded by stating, the “risk is real and it ought to be investigated.” In the meantime, if you’re taking one of the drugs, Prilosec, Nexium, or Prevacid, talk to your doctor. Your life may depend on it.