GASTROINTESTINAL MEDICATIONS

Acid reflux (heartburn) is a common ailment. Some estimates have suggested up to 40% of the general U.S. population suffers from heartburn, a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Unhealthy lifestyles— such as too much stress, too much fatty food, too many sweets, too much coffee, too little exercise, and too little sleep—are considered the most significant causes of these complaints. In addition, studies show that many people also have a genetic predisposition toward the condition. As is often the case with common health conditions, many people first attempt to solve the problem by selfmedicating. Gastric acid inhibitors are available at the 54,000 pharmacies and more than 750,000 retail outlets in the U.S. that carry OTC products. They are far more effective than the consumer products such as baking soda and Alka-seltzer that were part of our grandparents’ antacid arsenal. In fact, the newer substances work so well that consumer perceptions of OTC meds—such as omeprazole or pantoprazole—are so positive that many people take these substances for years—often without consulting a physician or pharmacist about it. The seemingly harmless pills make many people forget their underlying condition—and some unfortunately forget as well that they are taking a medicine that can have serious side effects. There is no doubt about it: Gastric acid inhibitors save lives— every day. And there is no question that—when used as directed—the advantages outweigh the dangers. Nevertheless, no one should take the safety of such medicines for granted.