Heartburn/GERD News

Six months after independent testing first raised the possibility that popular heartburn drug ranitidine (Zantac) might break down into the powerful carcinogen n-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), the FDA has asked for the removal of all ranitidine products from the market.

The findings do not prove that PPIs -- which include popular brands such as Prilosec (omeprazole), Prevacid (lansoprazole) and Nexium (esomeprazole) -- are the cause, experts said.         But they are the latest to raise safety questions about the top-selling prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

This surgery is done under general anesthesia with a laparoscope, a thin tube with a tiny video camera. The surgeon sews the top of the stomach around the esophagus.

FDA testing found the impurity in generic versions and in brand-name Zantac. Already, one major manufacturer has recalled its version of the drug, and another has ceased distribution.

A distribution halt is not the same as a full recall, and it means that generic Zantac (ranitidine) remaining on store shelves can still be sold, CBS News reported.

While preliminary tests found low levels of the nitrosamine impurity N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in some ranitidine products, the FDA said this does not mean patients taking the drugs should stop using them now.

PPIs, or proton pump inhibitors, are among the most common prescription drugs and are used to treat acid reflux, heartburn, indigestion, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and stomach ulcers.

Research in recent years has linked long-term use of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to increased risks of various diseases and premature death. These latest findings point to the specific causes of death.

New research suggests people with chronic acid reflux might have higher odds for even more dangerous foes -- head and neck cancers

The medicines in question are called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). They reduce stomach acid production and are among the most widely prescribed medications in the world.

Popping certain heartburn drugs like they're candy might up your odds for stomach cancer, new research suggests.

Researchers say proton pump inhibitors like Nexium or Prilosec not linked to dementia

Popular heartburn drugs known as proton pump inhibitors may raise the chance of death, new research shows.

Recurring bouts of C. difficile were more common in those who took drugs that lower stomach acid

Suggests long-term use of acid suppressors might open door to C. difficile and Campylobacter bacteria

Researchers concerned about high doses of meds like Nexium and Prilosec

Research Evaluates Possible Link to PPI Risks

Prior research has also raised concerns about Nexium and heart health

But finding can't show whether drugs are directly responsible

Death rate from procedure lower than previously reported, study finds

While study can't prove cause-and-effect, increasing damage seen as dose rises

But studies weren't designed to prove proton pump inhibitors are responsible for the increase

But don't stop taking proton pump inhibitors based on this study, expert says

The proton pump inhibitor reduces amount of acid in the stomach

Study suggests class of meds upset healthy balance of bacteria in the gut