Are acid reflux drugs bad for your bones?

If you take medication for acid reflux, here's important news: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can interfere with calcium absorption and weaken your bones. Vonda Wright, MD, shares tips to relieve acid reflux and keep your bones strong.

Transcript

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If you take a high dose of PPIs or have taken them for a long time, that can boost your bone fracture risk.

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Hi. I'm Dr. Wright, with important news about your bones. Proton Pump Inhibitors-- PPIs--

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are common medications to treat acid reflux. But there's evidence that PPIs weaken bones

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by interfering with calcium absorption. If you take a high dose of PPIs or have taken them

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for a long time, that can boost your bone fracture risk. So talk to your doctor about alternatives

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to treat your acid reflux. Swapping your PPI for an H2 antagonist may help.

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There's evidence that H2 antagonists are not associated with fractures and may even protect bones.

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Along with switching meds, try these tips to ease your reflux. Avoid trigger foods such as caffeine, chocolate,

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citrus fruit, tomato products, carbonated beverages, alcohol, mint, and full-fat dairy foods.

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Eat small meals. Chew sugar-free gum after meals. Don't exercise right after eating.

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Don't eat within three hours of going to bed. And sleep with your head raised.