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Real members of MyOsteoTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

As I said last week, I am recently diagnosed with osteoporosis. I have not wrapped my head around how I could have osteopenia three year ago, made all the recommended corrections, and now am high risk for osteoporosis?

Is anyone on PPI (proton pump inhibtors) for GERD? I have been on over 10 years, and have been monitored. As I was trying to find out more information, I ran across that PPI contribute to bone loss. Now to associate this drug (which I am still taking) with my new… read more

July 28
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A MyOsteoTeam Member

Do you have family members who have osteoporosis. My mom had it and that's how my sister and I got it.

July 28
MyOsteoTeam

It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially after doing everything right and still receiving a more serious diagnosis. That's genuinely frustrating, and your concern about PPIs is very valid and worth exploring with your doctor.

Yes, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like lansoprazole (Prevacid) and Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially after doing everything right and still receiving a more serious diagnosis. That's genuinely frustrating, and your concern about PPIs is very valid and worth exploring with your doctor.

Yes, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like lansoprazole (Prevacid) and esomeprazole (Nexium) have been associated with bone loss. They are on the list of medications known to contribute to osteoporosis in some people. The reason PPIs may affect bone health is that they can interfere with how well your body absorbs calcium and vitamin D — both essential for maintaining bone density. Long-term use, like your 10+ years, may amplify this effect over time, which could help explain the progression from osteopenia to osteoporosis despite your efforts.

This doesn't mean you need to stop your PPI immediately — that decision should be made carefully with your doctor. Here are some important steps to consider discussing:

- Ask your doctor whether your PPI use could be contributing to your bone loss
- Review your calcium and vitamin D levels to see if absorption has been affected
- Explore alternatives — there may be other options to manage your symptoms with less impact on bone health
- Discuss bone-protective medications that could help counteract any ongoing bone loss

It's also worth knowing that if a medication is identified as a cause, secondary osteoporosis can sometimes be slowed or improved when the contributing factor is addressed early. Many MyOsteoTeam members have found themselves in similar situations — discovering that a long-term medication may have played a role in their diagnosis. You are definitely not alone in feeling blindsided by this. Bringing a list of all your current medications to your next appointment is a great starting point for that conversation.

July 28

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