Doctors have raised concerns about a resurgence of a condition linked to a severe lack of vitamin in response to the widespread use of a common medication in the UK. Medical professionals at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Western Australia have issued a warning that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), including omeprazole, may prompt the potentially deadly ailment scurvy.
If left untreated, scurvy in its advanced stages can result in organ malfunction, significant internal bleeding, infections, and fatality. In the past, scurvy claimed the lives of numerous sailors who were deprived of fresh fruits and vegetables during extended sea journeys.
Approximately 15% of the UK population takes PPIs, with 73 million doses prescribed annually in England, accounting for 6% of all dispensed prescriptions. A report published in the British Medical Journal Case Reports highlighted the risk of PPIs reducing the body’s capacity to absorb vitamin C, which could lead to scurvy. The report detailed the case of a man in his 50s who developed scurvy after using PPIs.
The initial symptom manifested as a red-brown pinpoint rash that emerged on his legs and subsequently spread to his hands and arms. Laboratory tests revealed a severe deficiency in vitamin C and low levels of other essential nutrients. He was administered daily doses of vitamins C and D3, along with folic acid and multivitamins, which resulted in a full recovery.
The patient had been neglecting meals, avoiding fruits and vegetables, and had recently undergone stomach surgery for weight loss. Following the administration of daily vitamin C (1000mg), vitamin D3, folic acid, and multivitamin supplements, his rash disappeared, and his vitamin C levels normalized.
Dr. Andrew Dermawan from Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital emphasized the rising instances of malnutrition post-stomach surgeries and the challenges posed by the current economic situation, making it difficult for individuals to access nutritious foods.
PPIs are commonly prescribed for indigestion and stomach ulcers to safeguard the stomach from the adverse effects of other medications. They are also available for purchase without a prescription.
Scurvy is a condition resulting from a deficiency in vitamin C, crucial for collagen production, a protein vital for maintaining healthy skin, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Inadequate vitamin C impairs the body’s ability to repair itself effectively, leading to various symptoms.
The onset of symptoms typically occurs following a prolonged absence of dietary vitamin C, usually over several months. Signs include:
Scurvy can be effectively treated with vitamin C supplements or by consuming foods rich in vitamin C, such as:
Symptoms often show significant improvement within days to weeks of receiving treatment. However, if left untreated for an extended period, scurvy can lead to severe complications or even death.