New Lansoprazole and Omeprazole warning to anyone who takes them for heartburn

New Lansoprazole and Omeprazole warning to anyone who takes them for heartburn ITV’s This Morning and Lorraine GP Amir Khan gave a side effects alert - and advised to call doctor if concerned An NHS GP and TV doctor has given advice to people who take certain medications. Amir Khan who has appeared on ITV’s This Morning and Lorraine said people need to watch out for the side effects of certain prescriptions. And in a new post on Instagram, he looked at five of the most commonly prescribed medications. He explained: “When we prescribe medication, in our heads, we’re always weighing up potential benefits versus risk of side effects. And we only give them when the benefits outweigh any risk. “But if you’re taking medication, having problems with them, don’t just stop taking them. Come and talk to us because we often have lots of alternatives that we can give you.” Dr Khan said that metformin, which is commonly used for treating type 2 diabetes can impact on the stomach. He said: “It works really well. But especially when you first start it, it can cause diarrhoea, bloating, stomach cramps, and nausea. For many people, these symptoms settle after a few weeks. So don’t lose hope too quickly, but there are alternatives should you need it.” Lansoprazole and Omeprazole are proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that lowers the amount of acid your stomach makes. It treats acid reflux, GERD, stomach and duodenal ulcers, erosive esophagitis, and hypersecretory conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It is also paired with antibiotics to clear H. pylori bacteria infections and prevents ulcers caused by NSAID painkillers. He said: “Brilliant medication for acid reflux and protecting the stomach, but if you’re taking them for months or years, they can reduce absorption of nutrients like vitamin B12 and magnesium. So they should be reviewed from time to time. Make sure you still need them and that you’re on the lowest possible dose to manage your symptoms.” Dr Khan then highlighted ferrous sulfate. He said: ”These are the iron tablets. They’re fantastic at treating iron deficiency, but they can cause constipation, tummy discomfort, and nausea. And yes, they turn your poo black, but that’s expected. So, don’t panic about that one. If you’re struggling with them, come and speak to them. There’s liquid iron that we can prescribe for you.” On Bisoprolol he said: “We use this for things like high blood pressure. pressure, heart problems, and palpitations because it slows down the heart. Some people notice they’re more tired than usual, feel dizzy when they stand up, or have cold hands and feet. Come and talk to us.” Dr Khan said Salbutamol inhalers can: “Make your hands feel a bit shaky or make your heart race for a short while after you’ve used it. That’s a well-recognised side effect. But if you’re needing your blue inhaler regularly, that’s actually a sign that your asthma may may not be as well controlled as it could be and it’s worth getting it reviewed. The most important thing is this. If you’re getting side effects from your medicine, don’t suffer in silence and don’t just suddenly stop taking them without speaking to your GP, nurse, or pharmacist. Very often, we can adjust the dose, change how you take it, or find an alternative that suits you better.” In all cases Dr Khan said any concerns you should take up with your GP.