Friday, September 23, 2011

Reflux meds more likely to induce C.Diff diarrhea

Hospitalized patients on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) were three times as likely to develop diarrhea associated with Clostridium difficile (CDAD) than those who were not taking them, according to a study presented to Interscience Conference on Anti-Microbial Agents and Chemotherapy (ICAAC). The incidence of CDAD has been increasing in many developed countries. The finding makes physiological sense. The stomach is a highly acidic place, something that serves as a major defense mechanism against pathogens. Lowering stomach acid lowers the barrier and permits CDAD more often.

Bonnie - how many more disastrous consequences do we need before we stop taking PPIs long-term?

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