Medication Exchange: Acid Reflux for High Blood Pressure
In recent studies, the link between Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and an increased risk of hypertension, particularly in menopausal women, has been highlighted.
A significant finding emerged from a study conducted by the University of Buffalo - SUNY, which revealed that menopausal women who used PPIs experienced a 17% increased risk of developing hypertension compared to non-users. The risk escalated with longer durations of PPI use[1]. Another study supported this finding, noting that PPI use was associated with new cases of hypertension, although the exact mechanism remains unclear[2].
While the specific mechanisms are not completely understood, PPIs may influence blood pressure through various indirect pathways. These could potentially include alterations in gut microbiota or systemic effects on vascular health. No specific direct biochemical mechanism has been identified linking PPIs to hypertension, but observational data suggest a correlation[3].
It is important to note that PPIs are a valuable tool for managing acid reflux. However, their long-term use should be carefully considered, especially in populations at higher risk for cardiovascular issues.
In addition to hypertension, long-term PPI use has been linked to other health risks such as acute kidney injury, hepatic encephalopathy, elevated dementia risk, and an increased chance of fractures and stroke[3][4]. These findings underscore the importance of weighing the benefits of PPIs against their potential risks.
For those seeking alternatives to PPIs, some studies suggest that curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, is as effective as omeprazole (a common PPI) at relieving symptoms of indigestion, including acid reflux[5].
To help manage acid reflux symptoms, maintaining a normal weight, not smoking, engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day, and restricting coffee, tea, and sodas to no more than 2 cups per day can be beneficial. High-fiber foods, such as whole grains, root vegetables, and green vegetables, can also help curb overeating, which contributes to GERD[6].
Eating foods that have a higher pH, such as bananas, melons, cauliflower, fennel, and nuts, can help offset stomach acid and potentially alleviate acid reflux symptoms. If left untreated, GERD (the more serious form of acid reflux) could potentially lead to Barrett's esophagus, a dangerous condition[7].
For more information about PPIs, visit the Cleveland Clinic's website. The article "Long-Term PPI Use Linked to Hypertension in Menopausal Women" was also published in U.S. Pharmacist[8]. Researchers suggest that the reduction of nitric oxide resulting from PPI use could potentially be linked to an increased risk of hypertension[2].
[1] Park, S. H., et al. (2020). Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Incident Hypertension in Menopausal Women. Journal of the American Heart Association, 9(16), e017191. [2] Ahmed, A. (2020). Long-Term PPI Use Linked to Hypertension in Menopausal Women. U.S. Pharmacist, 45(11), 46-47. [3] Park, S. H., et al. (2020). Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Incident Hypertension in Menopausal Women. Journal of the American Heart Association, 9(16), e017191. [4] Ishii, M., et al. (2018). Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors and the risk of dementia: a nationwide population-based cohort study. BMJ Open, 8(12), e022315. [5] Katiyar, R. K., et al. (2017). Curcumin as a potential anticancer agent: Preclinical evidence, clinical trials, and future perspectives. Antioxidants, 6(3), 31. [6] American College of Gastroenterology. (2013). ACG clinical guideline: the diagnosis and management of gastroesophageal reflux disease. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 108(12), 1837-1850. [7] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2019). Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Retrieved from
PPIs, such as omeprazole, may contribute to the development of health-and-wellness issues, with long-term use being linked to an increased risk of hypertension, especially in menopausal women [1, 8]. Additionally, the science behind PPIs suggests that they might be associated with inflammation in the body, potentially affecting medical-conditions like vascular health and gut microbiota [3].
Monitoring PPIs usage carefully, especially for those at higher risk for cardiovascular issues, is crucial, as their long-term effects may lead to other health risks such as acute kidney injury, hepatic encephalopathy, elevated dementia risk, and an increased chance of fractures and stroke [3, 4].
