Expert: Eric Brandt - 8/6/2009

Question
HI. I have been diagnosed with a Hiatal Hernia- they put me on 40 mgs of Pariet (20am 20pm). I've sinced worked myself down to 20mg's in the am. I've done reasearch on Proton prohibitors & don't like the potential long term side effects.
    I should tell you that the only other med's that I take are Marvelon (birth control),clonazepan-(but only as needed,once in a blue moon).  A multi vitamin,B 100 complex & Cold Fx. I am also Hypoglycemic(not diabetic related),I'm allergic to peanuts + lactose intolerant....knowing all this now,is there an alternative medication out there that wouldn't have a bad interaction with these medications, vitamins and conditions?
Thank you

Answer
Hi TL,
There is not an alternative as potent as the PPI's to reduce acid production by the stomach. You can see a nutritionist for a low reflux diet which will help the symptoms and then you may be able to get away with the occasional antacid. I know people on long term PPI's (20 years plus) with no ill effect from the drugs. The choice boils down to quality of life. In my mind the benefits outweigh the risks.
Thank you for using Allexperts
Sincerely,
Eric Brandt, B.Sc. Pharm