Hypomagnesemia, Cardiovascular disease and other adverse effects in long term users of Proton pump inhibitors.

Abstract Background Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have revolutionized the management of GERD and peptic ulcer disease. However, they have been misused across the globe, causing increased concerns over its safety. In our study we intend to evaluate magnesium (Mg2+) levels among the long-term PPI users in our population. Additionally we will measure the prevalence of coexisting Ischemic heart disease (IHD), osteoporosis, as well as undiagnosed renal impairment. This is the first study evaluating the PPI mediated adverse effects in our local population, in order to bridge the gaps in knowledge and encourage further exploration of the subject. Methods An observational cross-sectional model was followed, with convenience sampling to collect data. Subjects between 18–80 years of age, who gave their consent were included while subjects who had other potential causes of hypomagnesemia were excluded. The collected data was analysed using SPSS ’25. Results Our sample consisted of 203 subjects. All were using PPIs, for at least 3 months, with the majority users lying between 3–30 months of use. Omeprazole was the most used PPI with 182 (90%) of users. The number of high dose PPI being 113 (56%). Comparing magnesium levels with total daily dosage (p = 0.18) and duration of PPI use yielded insignificant results. Moreover long term PPI users reported coexisting ischemic heart disease (21.7%) and osteoporosis (4.4%). Renal impairment was identified in 4% of the subjects on testing for serum creatinine. Conclusion Long term PPI use is quite prevalent in our population, with majority on high dose PPI. However we could not find significant prevalence of Hypomagnesemia, IHD, osteoporosis and renal impairment among our study population. But an appreciable number had IHD. Further randomized studies may shed more light on the reality of the situation.