September 2007

Do GERD Meds Increase Cardiovascular Risk?

A study done in Britain reported results showing that taking proton pump inhibitors (Nexium, Prilosec, Prevacid etc) for a year or more dramatically increased the risk of hip fractures in people older than 50.  The reason given was that while researches believe that the drugs do reduce acid in the stomach, they also make it more difficult for the body to absorb bone building calcium.

The drug companies responded that this was not proven and that one needed to carefully discuss with his/her prescribing physician the meds taken and the length of time taking them.

Then came more concerns:  two clinical trials suggested that proton pump inhibitors used to treat GERD may increase cardiovascular risk.  These cautions arose from a 14 year study comparing Prilosec (omeprazole) and surgery for patients with severe GERD and a shorter study of Nexium (esomeprazole) which is ongoing.  The FDA reviewed the data and in September issued the following announcement:

“After initial review and analysis of all the available data from the studies, the FDA’s preliminary conclusion is that, collectively, these data do not suggest an increased risk of heart problems for patients treated with Prilosec or Nexium. And an “early communications” posted on the FDA website stated that the “FDA does not believe that healthcare providers or patients should change either their prescribing practices or their use of these products at this time.”

The FDA continued to state that they have conferred with colleagues in the UK, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada, all of whose findings supported the FDA view. Both Prilosec and Nexium are made by Astra Zeneca who provided the data from the preliminary trials.

Dr. Roizen and his radio show co-host, Jim Graham recently reviewed MedSlant and gave us two thumbs up.  Both liked the length, height, and support of MedSlant. Graham called MedSlant “absolutely perfect”.  To hear the broadcast please go to You the Owner's Manual with Dr. Mike Radio Show. Locate the 2007-07-28 Part 2 broadcast. The review is in the last 15 minutes of Part 2. To listen to the show, click on PLAY on the second line.

Please keep the phone calls and emails coming to 1.800.346.1850 and customerservice@medslant.com.  I love hearing from you.

Wishing you a good night’s sleep,

Adele Camens
CustomerService@MedSlant.com

“I just want to let you know that the MedSlant pillow has by far been the best thing I’ve done for myself in trying to mitigate my problems with sleep apnea and acid reflux. My doctor wanted to put me on oxygen at night. I just don’t want to become dependent on that, plus that made me feel like an old lady, and I’m definitely not! From the first night on the pillow, my sleep improved. Some nights I still have problems, but most nights are much improved. I could tell right away that I was better because I began dreaming again! How cool is that?”

-- Sondra S., CO

If you have any questions, comments, or just want to chat, we love hearing from you. You can contact us via email at customerservice@medslant.com or by calling 1.800.346.1850

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The MedSlant™ wedge pillow helps relieve the symptoms of Acid Reflux, heartburn, GERD, acid indigestion, sinus congestion, Gastroesophogeal Reflux, etc. for a healthier, more restful good night's sleep. The content provided on this web site is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician(s).  Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. The MedSlant™ wedge pillow helps relieve the symptoms of Acid Reflux, heartburn, GERD, acid indigestion, sinus congestion, Gastroesophogeal Reflux, etc. for a healthier, more restful good night's sleep. The content provided on this web site is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician(s).  Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.