PPI Withdrawal

I've been on Protonix for several years, recently my dosage was upped to two 40 mg.  I have nighttime reflux, never any symptoms during the day.  All lifestyle changes made, bed elevation, not eating after 6:00pm, etc. etc.  My doctor, whom I consider an able physician, has repeatedly assured me of the safety of the PPI class of drugs.  Even said her 9 year old daughter was on Protonix.  After learning of the latest warnings of these drugs, increased risk of fractures, inablility to fight certain types of bacteria, etc., I really wanted to go off of this drug.  I have not been able to do so, as the pain interrupts my sleep and with fragmented sleep I am a zombie the next day.  Is there a "step down" treatment available?  Is the Esophyx procedure successful in those experiencing nighttime GERD ( I believe NERD - nonerosive, as I have had three endoscopies in the last 5 years and they have all shown no evidence of erosion in the esophagus.  With these dire warnings about PPI's, what are doctors now telling their patients, if anything? What is the current medical wisdom and advice?  I anxiously await the answer of an expert.

[selmaS]

Hi....the warnings u speak of is bcuzz u can develop an inability to absorb the vitamins and minerals u need...ur dr would do labs to insure this was not happening...

But the issue ur having is called rebound effect and u will need to step off the meds slowly.

PPI's shut off the proton pumps which produce acid  to break down the food.....and when u stop taking the PPI's they go into overdrive and u r right back where u started.

Talk with ur dr and see about using a probiotic to replace the good bacteria to help u get back into balance.

I am not an expert or a dr, just a long time GERD patient.

Good luck
"selma"