Recent advancements in cancer therapies have improved remission rates, but concerns about drug interactions persist. Professor Jean-Luc Raoul highlights risks associated with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), commonly prescribed to manage digestive issues, which may hinder the effectiveness of cancer treatments like tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors. While over 25% of cancer patients use PPIs, Raoul advises consulting healthcare providers for safer alternatives, emphasizing the need for tailored prescriptions to optimize treatment outcomes.
Significant Advances in Cancer Treatment
Recent years have witnessed remarkable advancements in cancer therapies, leading to improved remission rates for many patients. Nonetheless, there remains a crucial issue related to drug interactions that could hinder treatment effectiveness. Medical oncologist Professor Jean-Luc Raoul from Saint-Herblain has raised concerns about a commonly prescribed medication in France that may directly impact the efficacy of specific cancer treatments, potentially jeopardizing patient survival. Professor Raoul, who conducted a significant study on this matter published in July 2024, is now issuing a warning.
The Hidden Risks of Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are prevalent medications designed to lower stomach acidity, frequently used to manage conditions like gastroesophageal reflux, ulcers, and digestive discomfort. In France, these medications were prescribed over 16 million times in 2019 alone, according to Doctissimo. Common examples include omeprazole, esomeprazole, and lansoprazole. Their widespread use is largely due to their effectiveness and availability, often prescribed not only by general practitioners but also by oncologists aiming to alleviate symptoms in chemotherapy patients.
However, Professor Raoul’s research indicates that these seemingly safe medications may pose significant risks. He found that over 25% of patients undergoing cancer treatment were also taking PPIs, raising concerns about the potential consequences.
The oncologist emphasizes that the use of PPIs could disrupt the effectiveness of various cancer treatments, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as erlotinib, gefitinib, and pazopanib, often used for lung cancer and sarcomas. Additionally, immune checkpoint inhibitors utilized in immunotherapy might also be adversely affected. “These drugs can limit the absorption of cancer treatments and even alter the intestinal microbiota, which plays a crucial role in cancer immunity,” states Professor Raoul. Consequently, this diminished absorption could reduce remission rates and heighten the risk of disease advancement.
Given these findings, should patients cease using PPIs altogether? Not necessarily, according to Professor Raoul. He mentions the need for a comprehensive retrospective study utilizing national databases, though he acknowledges that results will take time. Meanwhile, he advises patients to consult with their healthcare provider to explore safer alternatives. “There are options available that may be less potent but carry a lower risk of interaction,” he notes, suggesting classic antacids like Gaviscon or H2 receptor antagonists as suitable alternatives.
For individuals with chronic digestive issues, it becomes imperative to tailor prescriptions strategically to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments while ensuring digestive comfort.