In this conversation, The doctors discusses the implications of long-term use of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), their efficacy, risks, and the importance of tapering off these medications. The discussion covers the physiological effects of PPIs, the necessity of addressing underlying causes of reflux, and the potential for natural and herbal alternatives to support patients in tapering off PPIs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of patient education and the need for a gradual approach to discontinuing PPIs to avoid rebound symptoms.

Takeaways

• PPIs are effective for short-term use but not for long-term.
• Tapering off PPIs should take three to six months.
• Natural alternatives can help manage reflux symptoms.
• Melatonin can improve lower esophageal sphincter function.
• Nutrient deficiencies are a risk with long-term PPI use.
• DGL has been shown to improve quality of life in patients.
• Patient education is crucial in managing PPI use.
• Underlying causes of reflux should be addressed.
• Herbal remedies can provide additional support during tapering.
• A gradual tapering process is essential to avoid rebound symptoms.

👋 Connect with the Turds!

Rebecca Sand ND, LAc, MSOM

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drrebeccasand.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@drrebeccasand⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Ilana Gurevich ND, FABNG, LAc, MSOM

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.openwellnesspdx.com⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@openwellness_pdx⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Ami Kapadia, MD, ABFM, ABIHM

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amikapadia.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠