Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton Pump Inhibitors (“PPIs”), such as Nexium, Prilosec and Prevacid, are some of the most widely prescribed drugs in the world. Data shows that as many as 1 in 14 people in the United States may have used a PPI. They are often prescribed by doctors to treat GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Unfortunately, for decades they have been extensively prescribed to treat more common conditions such as heart burn and acid reflux. Although they are only supposed to be prescribed for a short period of time, they are oftentimes prescribed for many years. The reason many doctors prescribe PPIs for so long is that these drugs were thought to be relatively free from serious side effects. However, new information has been published demonstrating that these drugs can cause kidney injury.
Acute Kidney Injury
It has been reported that the use of PPIs may lead to acute kidney injury, including a condition called Acute Instersitial Nephritis (“AIN”). This condition can occur within days of starting a PPI, or even within weeks or months post-use. Although AIN can be successfully treated by doctors in the emergency room, reports state that up to one third of patients who suffer from drug-induced AIN may later develop Chronic Kidney Disease. Unfortunately, AIN may be missed by doctors because the symptoms, including include nausea, malaise, and general discomfort, are not specific to this injury.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Several recent large studies have also demonstrated that users of PPIs may have a 50% or more greater risk of developing Chronic Kidney Disease compared to people who do not use PPIs.
PPI Warnings
There is currently no warning in the PPI product labels regarding acute kidney injuries, chronic kidney injuries, or renal impairment. The manufacturers of PPIs only started to include warnings regarding AIN in the drug labels in December 2014.
Free Case Evaluation
At Robinson Calcagnie, Inc., our PPI kidney injury lawyers are currently investigating claims of kidney injury allegedly caused by PPI usage. Our firm has decades of experience in pharmaceutical litigation. To determine if you are eligible for a PPI lawsuit, please contact us today for a free legal consultation with an experienced attorney.