The NHS advises people to use them for as short a time as possible to avoid long-term side effectsToby Codd Breaking news reporter, Charlotte Smith Senior Lifestyle Content Editor and Sam Dimmer East Midlands Head of Brand
06:51, 18 Jan 2026
The medication is used to treat symptoms of indigestion(Image: Getty)
The NHS website has issued a crucial warning for individuals using a widely prescribed indigestion medication.
The health body recommends taking it “for as short a time as possible” to prevent potential long-term adverse effects.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) represent the most commonly-prescribed treatment for indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux.
They work by substantially reducing stomach acid production through blocking the enzymes responsible for acid creation in the stomach.
This mechanism alleviates heartburn and acid reflux whilst protecting the stomach from certain medicines.
According to the Mirror, the NHS explains: “PPIs are a type of medicine which reduces the amount of acid your stomach makes.
“Having less acid can help ease the symptoms of indigestion. Indigestion is also known as heartburn, dyspepsia, or acid reflux. There are a number of PPIs available, for example, Omeprazole and Lansoprazole.”
The NHS emphasises the importance of following your GP’s guidance when taking these medications. Whilst treatment duration may vary depending on the condition’s severity, the health service recommends patients avoid taking PPIs beyond what is necessary, reports the Express.
The NHS states: “PPIs are usually prescribed for four to eight weeks for indigestion symptoms. They should be taken for as short a time as possible to avoid long-term side effects.”
Long-term usage may result in heightened susceptibility to bowel infections, particularly Clostridium Difficile, as well as respiratory infections such as pneumonia.
Extended use can additionally cause decreased absorption of essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, vitamin B12 and calcium.
Those who take PPIs over prolonged periods face an elevated risk of bone fractures in the hip, wrist and spine. Furthermore, certain research suggests a potential connection to increased likelihood of chronic kidney disease.
Nevertheless, some individuals do need to take PPIs on a long-term basis. GPs typically adjust dosages over time for these patients.
The NHS cautions: “If indigestion does not go away after two to four weeks, you are vomiting for no obvious reason, have blood in your vomit, find it painful or difficult to swallow, are losing weight for no obvious reason or notice dark or black stool, contact your GP surgery as soon as you can, especially if you are 55 years or older.”
For those discontinuing or completely ceasing PPI treatment, the NHS recommends: “Your dose of PPI may be changed by your GP practice to ensure that you are on the lowest dose possible for the least amount of time.”