The effect of proton pump-inhibiting drugs on mineral metabolism.

Two recent studies have reported increased hip fracture rates with long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use raising concerns about adverse effects of this class of drugs on mineral metabolism. One plausible mechanism by which PPIs could affect calcium economy and skeletal homeostasis is by impairing intestinal calcium absorption. In the long term, this could potentially lead to a negative whole body calcium balance, resulting in higher rates of bone loss and a greater risk of fragility fractures.