Inappropriate use of proton pump inhibitors

Background

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used expensive medications.

Aims

We performed a cross-sectional study to determine the extent and indication of PPI use in Irish acute medical wards.

Methods

Fifty-five medical charts were reviewed at the beginning and end of 1 month.

Results and conclusions

Thirty-three patients were prescribed PPIs; 26 prior to admission. The prescribing of PPIs was concordant with guideline recommendations in only 30% of cases. Two-thirds of PPI use was unlicensed.