Association of Long-Term Proton Pump Inhibitor Use With Nutrient Deficiencies: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

Cureus 2026 Open access

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Authors: Sarah Nafea, Chinenye Iguh, Fariyah Waseem, Tooba Babar, Mohd Hamza Masood, Muhammad Ammar Ali, Fatima Bashir Ahmed, Haya Qasem, Noel George Cherian, Ghosoun Ibrahem Atoom, Ban Ibrahim Atoum
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.106137
Cited by: 1
References: 24

Abstract

Background Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are generally employed to treat acid-related disorders. However, chronic acid blockade can reduce the absorption of essential micronutrients, such as vitamin B12, magnesium, calcium, and iron, potentially contributing to clinically significant deficiencies as defined by standard laboratory reference ranges. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted using electronic medical records collected between July and December 2025. The study included adults (18 years and older) who had been taking PPIs continuously for six months or more. Nutrient deficiencies were defined according to institutional laboratory reference ranges, with the following cut-off values: vitamin B12

Fields of Study & Subjects

Gastroesophageal reflux and treatments Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterology Nutrition and Health in Aging

Publication details

Journal / source
Cureus
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
18
Issue
3
Pages
e106137–e106137
Publication date
30 March 2026
Language
EN