Continuing to take an OTC proton pump inhibitor like Prilosec or Nexxium could be okay as long as someone has the blessing of their doctor. The directions on Prevacid are strongly worded, so I think it's less likely a doctor would suggest prolonged use.

One benefit to switching to a prescription med like Protonix is that it is covered by insurance and would cost a lot less than the OTC meds. It also sounds like BF is still suffering from GI symptoms despite being on Nexxium, so maybe he could benefit from a med change. IDK.

BF, I think it's a good idea to talk to your PCP about it no matter which direction you want to go in. Your doctor can give you the best guidance.

I had been taking Lansoprazole for years, however the recent publicity has scared me, and I haven't taken it every day, except for the last several days. When I take it every day I don't have the terrible heartburn.

I need to talk to my doctor. I don't know what to do. Our medications may have something to do with it, but I've had problems in my digestive track for decades. The anxiety tears up my digestive track also I believe. BF