How long does one PPI work before having to switch to another one?

Hi Everyone,

I've had GERD since October 2006.  In this time of one and a half years,  I have tried Prilosec (no help at all), Aciphex (a little help but still felt some burning most days), Prevacid (which helped but still had to take Zantac or Pepcid along with it most days).  Now, I have been on 80 mg  Nexium since April, 2007, and it worked fantastic.  Didn't even realize I had Gerd until just one month ago I started refluxing again.  Now, I have to take about 300mg a day of Zantac along with the Nexium just to get through the day.

So what is the longevity of these drugs?  I thought they were suppose to work for years before your body would get used to them.  I don't have much choice left as far as drugs go.

What experiences have any of you had with these drugs lasting  or not lasting forseveral years before you need to change to another drug?  Any input would be helpful as I see my GI doc tomorrow to discuss what to do.

Sillylilly

 

PPI's were originally developed to be a short term aid to give the esophagus a chance to heal in an acid-free environment. How long a drug lasts for each individual is one of those "everybody is different" answers that you're probably tired of hearing. You mentioned that you thought the drugs were supposed to last for years - I've given you info on two drugs below that show that the drugs weren't intended for long-term use, if you look up Aciphex and Prevacid you'll probably find similar information. Good luck with the GI visit tomorrow.

From the Protonix website: PROTONIX is a prescription drug that is used to treat and maintain healing of erosive acid reflux disease, also known as erosive GERD (breaks in the lining of the esophagus), and relieve associated symptoms that may include frequent and persistent heartburn and stomach acid backup. Most patients heal within 8 weeks of treatment. Doctors may prescribe PROTONIX beyond 8 weeks to maintain healing or to prevent a recurrence of your symptoms. Controlled studies did not extend beyond 12 months.

From the Nexium website: For patients who do not heal after 4-8 weeks, an additional 4-8 weeks of treatment may be considered. **Controlled studies did not extend beyond six months.