PPIs: What They Are, How They Work, and What You Need to Know

When you hear PPIs, proton pump inhibitors are medications that block stomach acid production by targeting the proton pumps in the stomach lining. Also known as proton pump inhibitors, they’re among the most prescribed drugs in the U.S. for heartburn, GERD, and ulcers. But here’s the thing—most people take them without knowing how they work, how long they should be used, or what side effects might sneak up later.

PPIs don’t just calm heartburn—they change how your body handles digestion. By shutting down acid production, they let the esophagus heal after damage from reflux. But that same effect can mess with nutrient absorption, especially magnesium, calcium, and vitamin B12. Long-term use has been linked to higher risks of bone fractures, kidney problems, and even certain gut infections. And while they’re great for short-term relief, many people stay on them for years without ever checking if they still need them.

Other medications like antacids, quick-acting products that neutralize stomach acid on contact and H2 blockers, drugs like famotidine that reduce acid but don’t shut it down completely are often better for occasional use. PPIs are powerful, but they’re not the only tool—and they’re not always the safest long-term fix. If you’ve been on a PPI for more than a few months, it’s worth asking your doctor if you can taper off or switch to something less aggressive.

The posts below cover real-world issues tied to PPIs and other meds you might be taking alongside them. You’ll find guides on how acid reflux meds interact with fiber supplements, what happens when you restart a PPI after a break, and how to tell if your symptoms are really from GERD—or something else entirely. There’s also advice on how to safely stop these drugs without rebound heartburn, and what alternatives actually work. No fluff. Just what you need to know to use PPIs wisely—or avoid them altogether if you can.