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Is it safe for the elderly to take PPIs long-term for GERD?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 60-year-old woman, and I have been taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for over five years. The medication has been effective in controlling my symptoms. Still, I recently came across articles discussing the potential risks of long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, such as bone density loss, kidney problems, or nutrient deficiencies.

This has made me quite anxious about continuing the medication. Should I consider tapering off or exploring alternative treatments like H2 blockers? Are there specific tests, like bone density scans or blood tests for vitamin levels, that I should undergo to ensure my long-term health is not affected by the medication?

Kindly help.
Answered by Dr. Raveendran S R

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

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Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use can lead to risks like loss of bone density, kidney issues, and nutrient deficiencies.

Discuss these concerns with your doctor before tapering off or switching to a Histamine H2-receptor antagonist (H2 blocker).

I suggest you do the following tests. These include:

  1. Bone density scan-Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).

  2. Kidney function tests.

  3. Blood tests for vitamins and minerals.

These tests help to monitor your health.

In some cases, lifestyle changes and medications like H2 blockers or antacids may provide an alternative to PPIs.

Regular check-ups can help minimize potential complications.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At January 21, 2025
Reviewed At June 26, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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Dr. Raveendran S R
Dr. Raveendran S R

Sexology

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Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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