Low magnesium interferes with cardiac myocyte electrophysiology and vascular tone, predisposing to premature beats, arrhythmias and elevated blood pressure. This medication is commonly used for Stomach Acid.
Cardiovascular reviews identify subclinical magnesium deficiency as a contributor to arrhythmias and hypertension, particularly in individuals on diuretics or medications that increase urinary magnesium loss.
DiNicolantonio JJ et al. Subclinical magnesium deficiency: a principal driver of cardiovascular disease? Open Heart. 2018;5(1):e000668.; Souza ACR et al. The integral role of magnesium in muscle integrity and function. Nutrients. 2023;15(24):5127.
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
Studies find that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase your risk of magnesium deficiency. A large study involving over 100,000 participants found a significant association between PPI use and lower magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia). PPIs work by reducing stomach acid production, which can also play a role in magnesium absorption. Individuals taking PPIs, particularly long-term use, should consider magnesium supplementation to help protect against deficiency.
Long-term use of PPIs might raise the risk of calcium deficiency and weaken bones. A potential mechanism for this is chronic hypergastrinemia, a condition where the stomach produces excess gastrin due to PPI use. This can lead to parathyroid hyperplasia, where the parathyroid glands overproduce a hormone that pulls calcium from bones. Additionally, PPIs significantly reduce stomach acid production, which can hinder calcium absorption from food in the intestines. Individuals taking PPIs, especially individuals at higher risk of bone issues or those on long-term PPI therapy, should consider calcium supplementation to help protect against deficiency.
There is evidence that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) might decrease vitamin C levels in the body. A study showed that even a short course of omeprazole, a common PPI, reduced vitamin C levels in healthy volunteers, regardless of their dietary intake. This suggests that PPIs may reduce the bioavailability of vitamin C, meaning the body has a harder time absorbing and using it. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in immune function and antioxidant defenses and therefore individuals using PPI therapy should consider supplementation with vitamin C to protect against a deficiency.