Notice: Users may be experiencing issues with displaying some pages on stanfordhealthcare.org. We are working closely with our technical teams to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience.
 

Learn about the flu shot, COVID-19 vaccine, and our masking policy »

Stanford Health Care

Indications and safety of proton pump inhibitor drug use in patients with cancer. Expert opinion on drug safety Triadafilopoulos, G., Roorda, A. K., Akiyama, J. 2013; 12 (5): 659-672

Abstract

Introduction: Although the exact prevalence of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use in cancer patients is not known, it is generally perceived to be widespread. PPIs are generally well tolerated and carry an excellent safety profile. However, increasing and longer term PPI use has raised concerns about the risk of pneumonia, bone fractures and enteric infections, and a possible interaction with clopidogrel that could increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Areas covered: We conducted a PubMed search of English language articles addressing the safety and adverse events associated with PPI use with particular emphasis in cancer patients. Expert opinion: PPIs, frequently used in cancer patients, are generally well tolerated and carry an excellent safety profile. PPI-induced acid suppression may increase the risk of Clostridium difficile or other enteric infections, nutritional deficiencies and community acquired pneumonia, all particularly important in cancer patients. The indications for PPI use in cancer patients should be carefully reviewed prior to use.

View details for DOI 10.1517/14740338.2013.797961

View details for PubMedID 23647006