Health and Me

Itisha Arya

Doctor Issues Warning To Anyone Taking Omeprazole For Acid Reflux — Here’s Why It Could Be Risky

omeprazole warning acid reflux

BBC Morning Live’s Dr <span>Punam Krishan</span> has cautioned people who regularly use proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as <span>omeprazole</span> to manage <span>heartburn</span>, <span>acid reflux</span>, and indigestion. In the UK, one in four adults experiences acid reflux, especially after large meals, and many turn to PPIs to relieve symptoms. However, Dr Punam explained that long-term use of these medications could pose certain health risks and urged patients to have their prescriptions reviewed regularly.

Dr Punam, a practising <span>NHS GP</span> and resident medical expert on BBC’s Morning Live, is also a well-known health broadcaster and author of children’s books.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/can-tiktoks-potato-bed-hack-really-help-you-sleep-better-experts-are-not-so-sure-article-153093836" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Can TikTok’s ‘Potato Bed’ Hack Really Help You Sleep Better? Experts Are Not So Sure</a>

<h2><span rel="noindex">Omeprazole Warning</span> For Acid Reflux</h2> 

Speaking to hosts Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton, she began by explaining how acid reflux develops. “Acid reflux happens when stomach acid travels back up the food pipe,” she said. “We all have acid in our stomach, it plays a key role in breaking down food. A small valve, or sphincter, at the top of the stomach acts like a trapdoor to keep that acid in place. But when this valve becomes weak or too relaxed, the acid can flow back up the oesophagus, leading to that burning, heavy sensation people often describe.”

She added that large meals, alcohol, and lying down soon after eating can all make reflux worse.

When asked how reflux is usually treated, Dr Punam explained: “If you only experience symptoms occasionally, over-the-counter medicines like antacids or alginates, such as Gaviscon can help by neutralising stomach acid. They’re effective for mild cases and can be used as needed.”

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/donald-trump-health-what-health-conditions-has-president-donald-trump-been-diagnosed-with-article-153090598" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">What Health Conditions Has President Donald Trump Been Diagnosed With?</a>

“For ongoing discomfort, we prescribe proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, like omeprazole or lansoprazole. These medicines are highly effective and have changed the way we treat acid reflux by targeting acid production directly at the source.”

<h2>Why Long-Term Use of PPIs Can Be Risky</h2>

Dr Punam warned that while PPIs are safe when used correctly, they are not intended for indefinite use. “These medications shouldn’t be taken unnecessarily or for long periods without medical review,” she said. “Extended use can slightly raise the risk of low magnesium or vitamin B12 levels and increase the likelihood of gut infections, particularly Clostridioides difficile, known as C. diff.”

She explained that C. diff is a bacterium that naturally exists in the gut but can overgrow when the balance is disturbed, sometimes causing persistent diarrhoea. “That’s a warning sign,” she said. “If you develop diarrhoea or notice changes in your bowel habits, speak to your doctor immediately. It’s very important to keep up with regular GP reviews if you’re on PPIs long-term.”

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/why-is-this-psychologist-warning-against-benzodiazepines-for-anxiety-treatment-article-153089281" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Why Is This Psychologist Warning Against Benzodiazepines For Anxiety Treatment?</a>

<h2>How Often Should People on PPIs See a Doctor?</h2>

If you are using omeprazole without a prescription, you should not continue for more than two weeks. See a doctor if:

<ul><li>Your symptoms don’t improve after 14 days.</li><li>Your symptoms get worse.</li><li>Your symptoms return within four months of finishing treatment.</li><li>You notice red flag signs such as difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, or black stools.</li></ul>For those prescribed omeprazole for longer periods, regular medical supervision is essential. Your doctor should schedule check-ups every six to twelve months, depending on your health condition and risk factors. If your treatment extends beyond a year, these follow-ups are crucial to reduce the risk of long-term side effects and ensure the medication remains safe and effective.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

acid reflux

omeprazole

omeprazole warning

punam krishan

heartburn

nhs gp

omeprazole side effects

End Of 'Gentle Parenting'? Why Gen Z Parents Are Turning To 'FAFO'

India Faces A Looming Lung Cancer Crisis, Expert Warns

The Invisible “Brain-Eating” Bacteria Lurking in Water Pipes That Can Cause Deadly Infections

Health & Wellness

8 Sit-Up Variations to Strengthen Your Core and Build Stability

Benefits Of Ayurvedic Health Supplement Ashwagandha

9 Anti-Inflammatory Breakfast Options You Should Try

5 Foods You Should Avoid For PCOS, Says Gynecologist

Love Sitting With Your Legs Crossed? Here’s You Should Avoid It

6 Daily Foods That Are Secretly Increasing Your Calories

9 Brain Boosters You Should Do Everyday

Hip Exercises That Will Keep You Flexible As You Age

9 Leg Exercises Office Workers’ Should Do At Home

Benefits of Having Herbal Tea Every Morning

9 Daily Habits That Boost Your Brain Power

Lower-Body Exercises That Are Game-Changers

How Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Helps You

Aging Myths You Should Never Believe

Superfoods That Support Your Gut Health

What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Instant Noodles Every Day?

Health Issues Premature Babies Often Face

Exercises Office Workers Should Do For Their Heart Health

Reasons Why You Should Add Raw Turmeric To Your Diet

Benefits Of Drinking Milk At Night: Why You Should Do It

Food That Provides Vitamin B12 Naturally In Your Diet

Surprising Health Benefits Of Fenugreek Seeds

9 Superfoods You Should Eat For Your Brain Health

What Does Mental Health Support Look Like At Work?

Long Stretches You Should Do To Unwind From Your Day

Colon Cancer In Young Adults: Early Symptoms You Should Know

Health Benefits Of Eating Dry Fruits Everyday

Are You At Risk For Fried Rice Syndrome?

These Tests Reveal How Well You Are Aging

Lower-Back Exercises You Should Do After A Long-Day's Work

Children’s Diet – What Kids Need To Eat For Immunity Building

Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

Love Spicy Food? Here’s How It Affects Your Health

Superfood List: Veggies And Fruits You Must Have For Immunity

Foods People With IBS Should Avoid

Exercises To Improve Digestion

Easy Work Lunches You Can Make In The Morning

Hunger Vs Craving: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

These Things Can Cause Your Heart To Age Faster

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

BBC Morning Live’s Dr Punam Krishan has cautioned people who regularly use proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole to manage heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. In the UK, one in four adults experiences acid reflux, especially after large meals, and many turn to PPIs to relieve symptoms. However, Dr Punam explained that long-term use of these medications could pose certain health risks and urged patients to have their prescriptions reviewed regularly.Dr Punam, a practising NHS GP and resident medical expert on BBC’s Morning Live, is also a well-known health broadcaster and author of children’s books.Also Read: Can TikTok’s ‘Potato Bed’ Hack Really Help You Sleep Better? Experts Are Not So SureOmeprazole Warning For Acid Reflux Speaking to hosts Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton, she began by explaining how acid reflux develops. “Acid reflux happens when stomach acid travels back up the food pipe,” she said. “We all have acid in our stomach, it plays a key role in breaking down food. A small valve, or sphincter, at the top of the stomach acts like a trapdoor to keep that acid in place. But when this valve becomes weak or too relaxed, the acid can flow back up the oesophagus, leading to that burning, heavy sensation people often describe.”She added that large meals, alcohol, and lying down soon after eating can all make reflux worse.When asked how reflux is usually treated, Dr Punam explained: “If you only experience symptoms occasionally, over-the-counter medicines like antacids or alginates, such as Gaviscon can help by neutralising stomach acid. They’re effective for mild cases and can be used as needed.”Also Read: What Health Conditions Has President Donald Trump Been Diagnosed With?“For ongoing discomfort, we prescribe proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, like omeprazole or lansoprazole. These medicines are highly effective and have changed the way we treat acid reflux by targeting acid production directly at the source.”Why Long-Term Use of PPIs Can Be RiskyDr Punam warned that while PPIs are safe when used correctly, they are not intended for indefinite use. “These medications shouldn’t be taken unnecessarily or for long periods without medical review,” she said. “Extended use can slightly raise the risk of low magnesium or vitamin B12 levels and increase the likelihood of gut infections, particularly Clostridioides difficile, known as C. diff.”She explained that C. diff is a bacterium that naturally exists in the gut but can overgrow when the balance is disturbed, sometimes causing persistent diarrhoea. “That’s a warning sign,” she said. “If you develop diarrhoea or notice changes in your bowel habits, speak to your doctor immediately. It’s very important to keep up with regular GP reviews if you’re on PPIs long-term.”Also Read: Why Is This Psychologist Warning Against Benzodiazepines For Anxiety Treatment?How Often Should People on PPIs See a Doctor?If you are using omeprazole without a prescription, you should not continue for more than two weeks. See a doctor if:Your symptoms don’t improve after 14 days.Your symptoms get worse.Your symptoms return within four months of finishing treatment.You notice red flag signs such as difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, or black stools.For those prescribed omeprazole for longer periods, regular medical supervision is essential. Your doctor should schedule check-ups every six to twelve months, depending on your health condition and risk factors. If your treatment extends beyond a year, these follow-ups are crucial to reduce the risk of long-term side effects and ensure the medication remains safe and effective.