What it means
A drug group whose generic names end in "-prazole": omeprazole, pantoprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole. They block the "pump" in stomach cells that releases acid. They treat gastroesophageal reflux diseasegas-troh-ih-sof-uh-JEE-ul REE-fluks dih-ZEEZA long-term condition in which stomach contents, including acid, flow back up into the esophagus.gastr/o stomachesophag/o esophagus-al relating toFull entry , stomach and duodenal ulcers, and H. pylori infection with antibiotics, and they protect the stomach in some hospital clients.
For the nurse
Give 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. Do not crush delayed-release forms. Long-term use is linked to C. difficile infection, broken bones, low magnesium and low vitamin B12, and the Beers list advises against use beyond 8 weeks in older adults unless there is a clear reason.
Remember it
"-prazole" turns down the acid pump.
At a glance
| Drug class | proton pump inhibitor (gastric acid reducer) |
|---|---|
| Spanish | inhibidor de la bomba de protones |
| Also written | proton pump inhibitors, proton-pump inhibitor, proton-pump inhibitors, PPI, PPIs |
Related terms
C. difficile
Clostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium that can infect the colon (the large intestine).
ulcer
An open sore where the skin or the lining of an organ has broken down.
gastroesophageal reflux disease
A long-term condition in which stomach contents, including acid, flow back up into the esophagus.
magnesium
A mineral in the blood that the nerves, muscles and heart need, measured with a blood test.