Association between Omeprazole(PPIs) and COVID-19
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Omeprazole is a medicine used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, heartburn, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It is marketed under the trade names Prilosec, Losec, among others. Additionally, it is applied to high-risk individuals to stop upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Some studies have looked into how taking PPIs might relate to COVID-19. Here's what they've found in simpler terms:
Do PPIs Increase the Chance of Getting COVID-19?
Yes, people taking PPIs seem to have a higher chance of catching COVID-19. A study found that if you take PPIs once a day, your risk of getting the virus is about 2 times higher. If you take them twice a day, the risk could be over 3 times higher.[1]
Do PPIs Make COVID-19 Worse?
If someone using PPIs catches COVID-19, they might have a higher risk of severe illness. This could mean needing intensive care, a ventilator, or facing serious complications. People who just started taking PPIs in the last 30 days are at an even higher risk.[2]
What About Stomach Symptoms?
COVID-19 can cause stomach problems like diarrhea or nausea, and these symptoms are more common in people who take PPIs.[3]
Why Might This Happen?
PPIs lower stomach acid, which can help kill harmful germs. Less acid might make it easier for the virus to cause problems in the digestive system or even spread further.
What Should You Do?
If you take PPIs, don’t stop without talking to your doctor.
Make sure you're only taking them if you really need to, and use the lowest dose that works for you.
Always follow your doctor’s advice and let them know if you're worried about COVID-19 and your medication.
These findings are still being studied, but it's good to be cautious and informed!
