This Wildly Popular Drug Could Cause Permanent Damage to Your Body, Study Says

Millions of Americans suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly referred to as GERD or acid reflux. With this condition, stomach acid flows up into the esophagus, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like heartburn and chest pain. Fortunately, the condition is easily treatable with both prescription and over-the-counter medications.

But according to a new study out of Brazil, one of the most popular drugs used to treat GERD may cause more problems than it solves.

Omeprazole (Prilosec) Could Lead to Bone Loss and Anemia

Researchers gave omeprazole, which you may know by its brand name, Prilosec, to rats in a regular human dose and found over time that it affected the way their bodies stored minerals like iron and calcium, reports Daily Mail. Some of the rats developed early anemia, as their bodies weren't properly absorbing iron.

The rats' calcium absorption was also affected, as researchers found that their bodies began pulling calcium from their bones and into their blood. This evidence supports the FDA's claims that long-term, high-dose users of omeprazole are at higher risk for bone fractures and osteoporosis.

Omeprazole is meant to be used short-term, but many people take it daily, putting themselves at higher risk for these unpleasant side effects.

Alternative Treatments for Acid Reflux

Fortunately for GERD sufferers, there are alternative drugs available. H2 blockers like famotidine, better known as Pepcid, don't carry the same risks as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole. H2 blockers activate faster than PPIs, but PPIs are stronger. However, the Cleveland Clinic doesn't recommend taking H2 blockers long-term either — at least not without consulting with a doctor.

Of course, the easiest way to avoid acid reflux is to steer clear of highly acidic foods that trigger it, like tomatoes, chili powder, and anything fried. Per Johns Hopkins, high-fiber foods like oats and sweet potatoes as well as high-alkaline foods like bananas and nuts can even help prevent acid reflux.