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← Return to alternative to Omeprazole?
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I am in a similar situation as you, @janieben. I recently started taking a PPI after learning I need to protect my stomach from low dose aspirin I also take. I share your concern about osteoporosis and long term effects of PPIs.
My doctor prescribed pantoprazole for gastric protection while continuing aspirin, and recommends switching to famotidine twice a day as an alternative. I try to get consistent calcium in my diet but he also made sure I take calcium +vitamin D when starting the PPI.
- Famotidine: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/famotidine-oral-route/description/drg-20072972
What discussions have you had with your doctor(s) about having osteoporosis and taking omeprazole long-term? Are you taking calcium or anything else to help your osteoporosis?
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The dr who did the endoscopy insists that omeprazole is the first line of defense against esophagitis, wants me to take it forever, and acts exasperated when I mention any long-term effects. Her attitude is, "So, you want to get esophageal cancer?!" I do have a hiatal hernia, which is the main reason I have damage to my esophagus, I assume. I don't know if it is a large or small one, and I am not sure of the level of damage to my esophagus. I am researching a procedure known as TEF - transoral incisionless fundoplication to 'tweak' the hiatal hernia. As far as osteoporosis goes, I have been taking Vitamin D3 with K2 for several years. I have recently added Vitamin K - MK4, which I have read directs calcium to the bones more than MK-7 does. I also started a weight-lifting, exercise regimen several months ago at a local community health center. I go three times a week. I take selenium and try to eat prunes. I do drink some milk, eat lots of cheese, cottage cheese, etc. Interestingly, since I have been taking Omeprazole for the past eight weeks, I have had more incidences of GERD at night than ever before! Anyway, this is a lot of information. I hope some of it helped you. I am always searching for more information and experiences from others helps me a lot. Hope you have a wonderful day!