Dr. Elizabeth Squirell · Gastroenterologist · Kingston Health Sciences Centre
Acid blockers (PPIs)
What acid-blocking pills do, who needs them for the long term, what the scary headlines really mean, and how to take less safely.
Key points
- PPIs are safe for most people. Use the lowest dose that controls your symptoms.
- Some people should stay on a PPI, such as people with Barrett's esophagus, severe esophagitis or a past bleeding ulcer.
- If you take a PPI for heartburn and feel well, ask your doctor if you could take a lower dose, or take it only when you need it.
- Don't stop a PPI that was prescribed for a serious reason without talking to your doctor.
- When you cut back, heartburn may flare for a while. Antacids, Gaviscon or famotidine (Pepcid AC) can help.
- Zantac is no longer sold in Canada. Don't use old packages.
- If you also take a water pill or digoxin, ask about a magnesium blood test.
- Call your doctor if you get diarrhea that doesn't get better while on a PPI.
Go to emergency or call 911 if you have
- You vomit blood or something that looks like coffee grounds
- Your stool (poop) is black and sticky like tar
- Food is stuck and you can't swallow your own saliva
- Severe, watery diarrhea with fever or belly pain, and you feel very unwell