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Acid-Suppressing Drugs

There are three basic classes of acid-suppressing drugs: (1) H-2 antagonists block histamine (H2) receptors on gastric mucosal cells and decrease the production and secretion of acid; (2) Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) block the acid-transpoter pump om the luminal surface preventing acid from entering the gastric lumen: (3) antacids directly neutralize existing acid in the stomach.

Common drugs:

Nexium, Prevacid, Prilose, Protonix, Tagamet, Zantac, Aciphex and more

Common health state:

GERD/Heartburn , H. Pylori

Calcium

Absorption of some calcium supplements, especially, calcium carbonate, is decreased when gastric acid is low. If supplementing with calcium, consider using calcium citrate or other calcium salts besides calcium carbonate for optimal absorption.

Vitamin B12

Gastric acid is necessary for assimilation and absorption of vitamin B12 from dietary/food sources, while the absorption of vitamin B12 in synthetic form (supplements or fortified foods) is not affected by pH of the stomach. Consider Vitamin B12 supplementation if using acid-suppressing drugs chronically or monitor vitamin B12 levels in people taking high doses of PPIs for prolonged periods.

Folic Acid

A few studies suggest that increased homocysteine levels may affect bone mass density in women and are a risk factor for osteoporosis in both older men and women. Vitamin B12, folic acid and vitamin B6 help maintain healthy homocysteine levels.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin D

Recent studies have shown an increased risk of fractures in older patients who take acid-reducing medications chronically due to reduced absorption of calcium. Vitamin D is essential for optimal absorption and utilization of calcium.

Ginger Root

Ginger may increase stomach acid and thus might interfere with antacids, H-2 antagonists, and proton pump inhibitors. Monitor for changes in acid-suppressing drug efficacy.

Goldenseal

Goldenseal may increase stomach acid and thus might interfere with antacids, H-2 antagonists, and proton pump inhibitors. Monitor for changes in acid-suppressing drug efficacy.

Green Tea Catechins

Tagamet (cimetidine) can inhibit the metabolism of caffeine in green tea and significantly reduce its clearance, increasing the potential for caffeine-related adverse effects.

Currently, there are no supplements that should be avoided when taking a drug that falls into this category.

The dietary supplement information contained on this site has been compiled from published sources thought to be reliable, but it cannot be guaranteed. Efforts have been made to assure this information is accurate and current. However, some of this information may be purported or outdated due to ongoing research or discoveries. The authors, editors and publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences from applications of the information in this site and make no warranty, expressed or implied, with respect to the contents herein.