The Food & Drug Administration in the USA has mandated that proton pump inhibitor heartburn medications must carry a label warning of increased fracture risk of the hip, wrist and spine. This group of drugs include Prevacid, Prilosec and Nexium. The FDA suggests those taking these drugs should consult with their doctors & those using such drugs over-the-counter, limit their use to no more that three 14-day periods a year.
Alternatives include: restore your gastric balance and function with probiotics (good bacteria); test for Helicobacter pylori infection; modify your diet to eliminate hot spices & curries, carbonated drinks, caffeine, alcohol, all nicotine products, processed foods & sugars; slow your eating down, chew your food more, relax and reduce your stress, seek help with herbal medicines.
Source: FDA May 25, 2010.
