PPI

PPI or Proton-pump inhibitors are a group of drugs whose main action is a pronounced and long-lasting reduction of stomach acid production. They are the most potent inhibitors of acid secretion available.

Mechanism of action

The proton pump is the terminal stage in gastric acid secretion, being directly responsible for secreting H+ ions into the gastric lumen, making it an ideal target for inhibiting acid secretion. Proton-pump inhibitors block the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system of the gastric parietal cells. The process of acid secretion involves the transfer of H+ ions from the cytoplasm of the parietal cell into the lumen of the stomach.

Medical uses

Proton-pump inhibitors are used to treat conditions where a reduction in stomach acid is needed, such as peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), dyspepsia, and Zollinger–Ellison syndrome. They are also used alongside antibiotics to treat stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.

Side effects

Long-term use of PPIs is strongly associated with the development of benign polyps from fundic glands (which is distinct from fundic gland polyposis); these polyps do not cause cancer and resolve when PPIs are discontinued. No association is seen between PPI use and cancer, but use of PPIs may mask gastric cancers or other serious gastric problems and physicians should be aware of this effect.

See also

• H2 antagonist
• Antacid

References

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