Vitamin A deficiency can damage the surface of the eye in both children and adults, progressing from dry, uncomfortable eyes and night‑vision problems to xerophthalmia and, in severe cases, permanent blindness if it is missed. Regular vitamin A from food and, when appropriate, thoughtfully used supplements can meaningfully reduce this risk; in one large analysis, children in the highest overall intake group had about a 62 percent lower risk of xerophthalmia than those in the lowest group (multivariate relative risk 0.38, 95 percent confidence interval 0.19–0.74). Vitamin A deficiency and xerophthalmia have been documented not just in low‑resource settings but also in at‑risk children and adults in developed countries, so anyone with unexplained dry eyes, night‑vision changes, or corneal findings should have vitamin A status considered and be referred promptly for ophthalmology review to help protect their sight. This medication is commonly used for Stomach Acid.
Chiu M, Dillon A, Watson S. Vitamin A deficiency and xerophthalmia in children of a developed country. J Paediatr Child Health. 2016 Jul;52(7):699-703. Djunaedi E, Sommer A, Pandji A, Kusdiono, Taylor HR. Impact of Vitamin A Supplementation on Xerophthalmia: A Randomized Controlled Community Trial. Arch Ophthalmol. 1988;106(2):218–222.Chiu M, Watson S. Xerophthalmia and vitamin A deficiency in an autistic child with a restricted diet. BMJ Case Rep. 2015 Oct 5;2015:bcr2015209413. Fawzi WW, Herrera MG, Willett WC, el Amin A, Nestel P, Lipsitz S, Spiegelman D, Mohamed KA. Vitamin A supplementation and dietary vitamin A in relation to the risk of xerophthalmia. Am J Clin Nutr. 1993 Sep;58(3):385-91.
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
Long-term use of H2 blockers may increase your risk of zinc deficiency. These medications work by reducing stomach acid, which is crucial for absorbing zinc from food. Zinc is an essential mineral that supports a healthy immune system and wound healing. Deficiency can lead to various health problems. A study directly investigated the impact of cimetidine, a common H2 blocker, on zinc absorption. The research found that zinc absorption significantly decreased after cimetidine administration, highlighting the role of stomach acid in this process. Individuals who take H2 blockers for extended periods should consider supplementation with zinc to protect against a deficiency.
Research suggests that long-term use of H2 blockers and antacids might raise the risk of folic acid deficiency. These medications work by reducing stomach acid, which can also play a role in folic acid absorption. Folic acid is crucial for healthy cell growth and development, and a deficiency can lead to various health problems, especially during pregnancy. Some studies show a potential link between H2 blocker/antacid use and lower folic acid levels. Individuals who take H2 blockers or antacids for extended periods should consider supplementation with folic acid to protect against a deficiency.
Research suggests that long-term use of medications that reduce stomach acid, like H2 blockers and PPIs, may be linked to vitamin B12 deficiency. Stomach acid plays a role in releasing vitamin B12 from food, and reduced acid levels caused by these medications could hinder proper B12 absorption. Some studies find an increased risk of B12 deficiency, particularly in older adults or those using these medications for extended periods. Individuals taking H2 blockers or PPIs long-term should consider vitamin B12 supplementation.
Vitamin A plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy gut lining, which is crucial for overall stomach health. This is why some research has explored its potential use alongside other medications for treating ulcers. Research suggests vitamin A supplementation may be effective specifically for treating ulcers alongside H2 blockers.