Parker Waichman LLP

PPIs May Impact Magnesium Levels, Cause Fractures, U.K. Drug Regulator Warns

PPIs Side Effects May Increased Risk of Fractures. Patients in the U.K. are being warned that prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) may be associated with an increased risk of fractures, as well as a condition called hypomagnesaemia. The U.K.’s Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has issued guidance to doctors and patients there regarding these possible PPI […]

PPIsPPIs Side Effects May Increased Risk of Fractures. Patients in the U.K. are being warned that prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) may be associated with an increased risk of fractures, as well as a condition called hypomagnesaemia. The U.K.’s Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has issued guidance to doctors and patients there regarding these possible PPI side effects.

Hypomagnesaemia is an electrolyte disturbance in which there is an abnormally low level of magnesium in the blood. Left untreated, this condition can lead to cardiac and respiratory arrest, and even death.  Symptoms of the condition may include:

•    Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
•    Convulsions
•    Fatigue
•    Muscle spasms or cramps
•    Muscle weakness
•    Numbness

REGULATORY AUTHORITIES IN EUROPE SUGGESTS THAT PPIS MAY CAUSE HYPOMAGNESAEMIA

According to the MHRA, a review of case reports described in the literature or reported to regulatory authorities in Europe suggests that PPIs may cause hypomagnesaemia. Some cases occurred after 3 months of PPI therapy, but most occurred after 1 year of treatment. Doctors are being advised to consider measurement of magnesium levels before starting PPI treatment and periodically during prolonged treatment, especially in those who will take a PPI concomitantly with digoxin or drugs that may cause hypomagnesaemia (eg, diuretics). They should also take into account any use of PPIs obtained over-the-counter.

Patients have been warned not to use over-the-counter PPIs for more than 4 weeks.  All PPI patients should seek medical care if they experience symptoms of hypomagnesaemia.

The MHRA also warned that two studies have suggested the risk of fracture is increased by 10–40% above baseline in people who take PPIs for extended periods of time. The primary studies in these analyses have varied in the extent to which they have adjusted for other potential risk factors for fracture, and use of calcium or vitamin D.  Doctors have been advised to treat patients at risk of osteoporosis according to current clinical guidelines and ensure they have an adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium.  They should also take into account any use of PPIs obtained over-the-counter.

PPI patients have been advised to consult their doctor to make sure they are taking enough vitamin D and calcium.  Again, the MHRA warned against the use of over-the-counter PPIs for longer than 4 weeks.

NEED LEGAL HELP REGARDING PPIs?

The personal injury attorneys at Parker Waichman LLP offer free, no-obligation case evaluations. For more information, fill out our online contact form or call 1-800-YOURLAWYER (1-800-968-7529).

What Our Clients Say About Us
We have worked with thousands of clients and we appreciate them and their positive reviews. Here are just a few recent client reviews...
5 Star Reviews 150
Parker Waichman LLP were very compassionate with my case. Michele Josama was absolutely wonderful. She keep me very informed throughout the process. She was thorough and knowledgeable. Michele Josama is truly an asset to this firm.
Yesenia Bonilla
5 years ago
5 Star Reviews 150
Thank you Parker Waichman LLP and especially paralegal Benita Rollis who guided me through the whole process. She was very professional, courteous and always called me back when I had any questions. I was very satisfied and highly recommend Parker Waichman LLP.
Denise Saraceno
2 years ago
5 Star Reviews 150
Was very professional and and informative I was very surprised with the outcome. Would have not been able to get this done alone Thanks you again.
Ed Ruvane
6 years ago

Why Choose Us to Help You?

We Take Care of Everything
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
No Recovery = No Legal Fees
We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning that we only get paid from a portion of your settlement or jury award. If you don't get compensation, you owe us nothing.
Decades of Experience
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
Respected by Our Peers
Judges, insurance adjusters, and fellow attorneys all speak highly of our skills, and we've earned numerous accolades, including a flawless rating from AVVO.
We Have Many Locations To Serve You
We have the experience and the skilled litigators to win your case. Contact us and speak with a real attorney who can help you.
Long Island – Nassau
Parker Waichman LLP
6 Harbor Park Drive
Port Washington, NY 11050
Long Island – Suffolk
Parker Waichman LLP
201 Old Country Road – Suite 145
Melville, NY 11747
New York
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Queens
Parker Waichman LLP
118-35 Queens Boulevard, Suite 400
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Brooklyn
Parker Waichman LLP
300 Cadman Plaza West
One Pierrepont Plaza, 12th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201
New Jersey
Parker Waichman LLP
80 Main Street, Suite 265
West Orange, NJ 07052
Florida
Parker Waichman LLP
27299 Riverview Center Boulevard
Suite 108
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Nationwide Service
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038