Multiple studies regarding the use of Prilosec, Nexium, and other proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) have shown us the scary realities of the damage that they can cause. Prilosec and other PPIs are linked to kidney damage.
Prilosec and Kidney Damage
Prilosec belongs to a class of heartburn medications known as proton-pump inhibitors (PPI). Once available only with a prescription, the drug can now be purchased over the counter. Kidney International released a study in February 2017 that did more than link Prilosec to kidney disease. They found that many people who develop kidney problems as a result of taking Prilosec often have “silent kidney disease.”
Prilosec is commonly prescribed by doctors to treat heartburn and acid reflux. However, it was meant for temporary use. People often take Prilosec for years. Studies have shown that not only is Prilosec overprescribed by doctors and often prescribed off-label. This leads to more patients being at risk for silent kidney disease.
Prilosec may place people at risk of developing kidney disease over an extended period of time for another reason. Sometimes doctors prescribe Prilosec as a preventative measure. The patients take it because the doctor tells them to do so even if they did not have acid reflux or heartburn. Then, when the patients stop taking it, they develop heartburn or acid reflux because the acid pumps in the stomach begin to overproduce. This often causes patients to continue to use Prilosec.
Silent Kidney Damage Study Basics
This particular study involved analyzing five years of data taken from 144,032 individuals involved with the Department of Veteran Affairs. More than 125,000 used PPIs like Prilosec. The other individuals used H2 heartburn medications. The researchers found that more than half of the people in the study who took PPIs developed chronic kidney damage and end-stage renal failure. However, they did not experience any of the symptoms that could have allowed them to get treatment for their condition.
This study has shown us that we cannot always rely on symptomology to determine if something, particularly something serious like kidney damage, is occurring. Researchers involved in the study recommended that doctors and other treating health care professionals monitor kidney function of the patients who take Prilosec and other PPIs.
What You Should Know about Kidney Damage
Kidney damage is no laughing matter. Your kidneys have an important job. They help filter toxins out of your body. Long-term kidney damage can result in the need for dialysis or even a kidney transplant. Kidney disease can ultimately cause your death. Although the study from February 2017 brought up “silent kidney damage,” meaning that there are no symptoms, it is important that you know that many of the symptoms may also be mistaken for other conditions.
The signs of kidney damage such as nausea, vomiting, feeling tired, persistent itching, or even high blood pressure can be attributed to other conditions. Kidney damage can cause high blood pressure, but high blood pressure can also exist on its own.
Were You Diagnosed with Kidney Damage After Taking Prilosec?
If you were diagnosed with kidney damage after taking Prilosec, you may benefit from filing a Prilosec lawsuit. You could be eligible for compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. Goldwater Law Firm fights for people and their families. Call us now and schedule your free case evaluation.