Protonix or Omeprazole safe for PN?
 

I was wondering if anyone knows if Protonix or Omeprazole are safe for people with small fiber neuropathy? I have been searching but haven't really found an answer to this question. Do they make neuropathy worse?

well I have been taking omeprozole for almost a year my neuro didn't have any concerns with me taking it and I haven't noticed any ill effects re my SFN from using it, why do you have concerns?

Those drugs lead to low B12 levels... and that can be tested for.

They also reduce absorption of :
Folate
calcium
iron
zinc
magnesium
and perhaps copper and other trace minerals.

Acid is required for normal utilization of these nutrients.

So over time, you could become low in all or any of these that I listed.

I am concerned because I googled Protonix side effects and it listed paresthesia as a possible side effect, so I was wondering if anyone had any experiences with these drugs.

I had been taking Omeprozole for about 5 years before my SFN started. Whether or not it has anything to do with getting SFN I'm sure I'll never know. Like most people, I have a number of things that could have caused it or at least been a contributing factor.

When I realized that the omeprazole could be a contributing factor, I considered quitting it. However, I do have significant gastric reflux. In addition to the obvious pain of heartburn, there is the risk for erosion of the esophagus - eventually leading to esophageal cancer. (There is a history of this in my family.) After weighing the risks and benefits, I decided to continue taking it. But I am supplementing all the things Mrs. D mentioned that can be affected by the lack of stomach acid.

As with pretty much everything related to PN, there is no clear cut answer. You'll have to look at your own list of risks/benefits and make the best educated decision you can. Good luck :)

Thanks for your responses. I started taking doxycycline and was having a lot of nausea from it so I tried Protonix. It helped a lot, but I also am having issues with malabsorption of vitamins and minerals so I am going to steer clear and just stick with ginger ale.

You can take doxy with a little food... no dairy... but a little food
like crackers and water may help.

Yeah, I've been taking it in the middle of my meals. I'm not allowed any flour or gluten while I'm on the doxy. So I've just been eating meat and green vegetables, even for breakfast. Lots and lots of water too. I've been drinking Zevia ginger ale, no sugar. That is pretty good. I made some ginger tea out of ginger root that helped too.

MrsD you are awesome. You have really helped me a lot. You and LizaJane. I would really be in a lot of trouble without this board and you fine folks.

There are nice rice crackers by Blue diamond company.
I use these myself and they are gluten free ..most
Stores carry them--I get ours at Krogers. Simply Tostitos
by Lays also are corn only.

I'm glad for you that you are finding answers here ;)