What Is Aciphex?

Aciphex, generically known as Rabeprazole, is an anti-heartburn drug that reduces stomach acid. The drug works by inhibiting the production of stomach acid. Aciphex is manufactured by Eisai Co. and is sold by Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Unfortunately, the FDA has warned that Aciphex may increase the risk of nephritis (kidney inflammation), bone fractures, low magnesium, and infections.

Side Effects

• Nephritis
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Kidney inflammation
• Renal disease
• Kidney failure
• Bone fractures (especially of the wrist, spine, and hip)
• Low magnesium
• Tetany (muscle spasm)
• Infections
• Arrhythmia and heart problems
• Seizures

Aciphex and Kidney Damage

A medical study published in JAMA Internal Medicine on January of 2016 reported that proton pump inhibitor medications, such as Achphex have been linked to long-term kidney damage. Those that were taking the drugs were at risk 20-50% more for chronic kidney disease over those taking other types of heartburn medications.

These findings are troubling as proton pump inhibitors have been linked to short-term kidney issues as well. These drugs are used by more than 15 million Americans each year.

Aciphex and Bone Fractures

Studies have also recently shown that taking Aciphex may increase the risk of bone fractures compared to those that do not take proton pump inhibitors. These studies found that the risk is also much greater for those who have used the drugs for at least one year, or used high doses.

Without stomach acid, the body may not be able to extract calcium from food, which in turn would decrease the amount of calcium absorbed by the body to be incorporated into bones.