Proton pump inhibitors from clinical pharmacists point of view.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are very effective drugs in treatment and prevention of acid-related disorders. They are widely used in gastroesophageal reflux disease, gastroduodenal ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or prevention and treatment of NSAIDs induced gastric lesions. They are also used in many other indications, although not always is their use appropriate. PPIs are generally well tolerated and overall benefits outweigh potential harm in most of the patients. However, their long-term use is not without a risk of adverse effects and drug-drug interactions and contributes to medical expenses and polypharmacy. As PPIs belong to most prescribed drugs, we should carefully consider the length of therapy and appropriateness of their use and regularly reevaluate the need for chronic therapy.