New evidence has emerged linking the concurrent use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and bisphosphonates to an increased risk of fractures in elderly patients.
A European study of 38,000 new users of the bisphosphonates, alendronate, found those using it, but not using PPIs had a 39 per cent reduced risk of hip fractures. However, those using alendronate and a PPI had only a non-significant, 19 per cent reduction in hip fracture risk.
There was no significant impact from concurrent use of histamine H2 receptor blockers.
The researchers said the concurrent use of the treatments was common in elderly patients, and this was of concern given the effect PPIs can have on the absorption of calcium, vitamin B12 and bisphosphonates. Therefore they could interfere...
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