What does PPI mean in MEDICAL

A proton pump inhibitor is a type of medication used to reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach. The primary function of these drugs is to reduce or block an enzyme called the hydrogen-potassium ATPase. This enzyme helps to create hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach, so blocking its activity will reduce stomach acid production.

Proton pump inhibitors work by blocking the action of an enzyme known as hydrogen-potassium ATPase, which helps create hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach. By blocking this enzyme's activity, PPIs can reduce or stop gastric acid production and thus help with conditions such as GERD, peptic ulcer disease, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Proton pump inhibitors are used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease (PUD), hypersecretory states such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) and gastritis. In addition, PPIs may be beneficial for patients with Barrett's esophagus who have been on long-term antacid therapy.

Like all medications, there may be rare side effects associated with taking PPIs. These include constipation, diarrhea, headache, nausea and vomiting. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking your PPI medication it is important that you contact your health care provider right away.