Short-term proton pump inhibitor

Although the risk of GI complications is relatively small with short-term therapy, coadministration with a proton pump inhibitor should be considered in elderly patients and others at increased GI risk. NSAIDs should be used with caution in individuals with a history of peptic ulcer disease, heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension, renal insufficiency, coronary artery disease, or if they are receiving anticoagulants concurrently. 

Esomeprazole (Nexium) [Gastric Acid Inhibitor/Proton Pump Inhibitor] Uses Short-term (4-8 wk) for erosive esophagitis/GERD H. pylori Infxn in combo w/ antibiotics Action Proton pump inhibitor, gastric acid Dose Adults. GERD/erosive gastritis 20 0 mg/d PO x 4-8 wk 20 0 mg IV 10-30 min inf or >3 min IV push, 10 d max Maint 20 mg/d... 

The adverse effects profile of the proton pump inhibitors during short-term administration (under 12 weeks) is similar to that reported with short-term use of histamine receptor antagonists. The type and frequency of adverse effects reported with lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole are comparable. The most common adverse effects include headache, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, dizziness, and skin rashes. 

The benefits and risk profile of rabeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, have been reviewed (1,2). It has been well tolerated in both short-term and long-term studies. The overall rate of drug withdrawal because of adverse effects was 3%. Common adverse effects included diarrhea, headache, and rash. 

Van Rnxteren B, Numans ME, Ponis PA, Lau J. Short-term treatment with proton pump inhibitors, H2-receptor antagonists and prokinetics for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease-like symptoms and endoscopy negative reflux disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2000 CD002095 1-27. 

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