long term omeprazole use

[Chickens44]

I was taking omeprazole for about 15 years and stopped in December last year, as I had done some research and found out it can affect stomach acid. No one told me to stop taking it. I don’t even know why I was put on it in the first place, up I think it was for IBS. I haven’t had any acid reflux or indigestion since stopping, which is good news. But I am wondering if I still have low stomach acid as my gut is obviously not processing nutrients properly, as my B12, ferritin, etc are low, in range, but low. How long can it take to get the gut back to normal? I have started taking Betaine HCL, to see if it helps. Anyone have any thoughts on this.

[wedgewood]

.If you have P.A. , you will have low stomach acid anyhow , due to the Intrinsic Factor Antibodies destroying the parietal cells in the stomach ,, which produce stomach acid along with the Intrinsic Factor required to absorb vitamin b12 .

Yes , you are right to introduce extra acid . You can use diluted apple cider vinegar and drink it before a meal . You can also use apple cider vinegar tablets . If seriously deplete yes , use Betaine HCL .

If you do have P.A.I hope that you are receiving b12 injections often enough to keep symptoms at bay .

I suggest eating some fermented foods which naturally supply probiotic bacteria, which are so beneficial to the stomach . Real yogurt , kefir, sauerkraut etc . If that does not appeal , you can purchase probiotic capsules . Or a liquid called Symprove . Eat smaller meals more often and chew very thoroughly . Enjoy your meals in good company when possible , and relax ….. Best wishes .

[Orchard33]

It is not known whether the stomach can fully recover from the long term use of PPIs. The longitudinal research seems not to have been done yet. I was given it for IBS and reflux, first an H2 Blocker (ten years, unmonitored) and then Omeprazole (five years, unmonitored). In the end Omeprazole was making my symptoms worse, which is when stopped taking it. It is good news that you have no symptoms since stopping. Rebound if you have it is very unpleasant.I use Symprove ( discovered on this site, thank you Wedgewood) and slippery elm specifically for the stomach.

[Nackapan in reply to Orchard33]

My daughter was on omeptazole for too long.She had completely changed what she eats and how .

My mum also prescribed it for ibs.( actually damage from much needed radiotherapy)

She tried all sorts.

Currently less diary.fortified soya drink.

Also has juice with each meal.

Natural plain bio yoghurt

Still has mints at night .

Also lemon in hot water.

Teeth!!

She hasn't many too worry about now .

Her priority is her stomach and wd all f8nd different things work for us.

[Pollyanna23]

Hi. Yes I have heard problems with taking Omeprazole but it’s good news you’re having no reflux symptoms. If you do experience more issues you could ask your doctor about taking lansoprazole which I have been on for years and have never had any problems with.Good luck.🍀