Question: Are There Differences Between Proton Pump Inhibitors?
Answer: Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are similar in how they work, and there is no evidence that one is more effective than another. They differ, however, in how they are broken down by the liver and how they interact with other medications. Also, the effects of some PPIs may last longer than others and be taken less frequently.
PPIs include:
- Aciphex (raberprazole)
treats peptic and esophageal ulcers, GERD and erosive esophagitis. Aciphex is metabolized in the liver and is generally taken once a day. The effects can last up to 24 hours and is available by prescription.
- Nexium (esomeprazole) is prescribed to treat GERD, stomach and peptic ulcers, erosive esophagitis and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Nexium is metabolized in the liver and is generally taken once a day. The effects can last up to 24 hours, and it is available by prescription.
- Prevacid (lansoprazole) is prescribed to treat and prevent peptic ulcers, erosive esophagitis, GERD, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Prevacid is metabolized in the liver and is generally taken once a day. The effects can last up to 24 hours and is available by prescription.
- Prilosec (omeprazole) is prescribed to treat peptic ulcers, GERD and erosive esophagitis. Prilosec is metabolized in the liver and is generally taken once a day. The effects can last up to 24 hours and is available by prescription and over-the-counter (Prilosec, Omeprazole).
- Protonix (pantoprazole) is prescribed to treat erosive esophagitis and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. Protonix is metabolized in the liver and is generally taken once a day. The effects can last up to 24 hours and is available by prescription.
For more information on these medications, and others, go to Drugs A to Z.
Sources:
Kenneth R. DeVault M.D., F.A.C.G., and Donald O. Castell M.D., M.A.C.G., "Updated Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease." doi: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2005.41217.x. American College of Gastroenterology. 6 Jun 2008
Nicholas J. Talley, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.G.,1 Nimish Vakil, M.D., F.A.C.G., "Guidelines for the Management of Dyspepsia." doi: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2005.00225.x. American College of Gastroenterology. 6 Jun 2008
"Understanding Some of the Medications Often Prescribed for GERD & Ulcers." Common GI Problems: Volume 1. American College of Gastroenterology. 6 Jun 2008
