New report: Nearly 60% receive reflux medication without clear indication
The use of medication for heartburn continues to increase, despite ongoing discussions about overprescription. At the same time, new data shows that healthcare providers treat a large proportion of patients without a clear medical indication.
60% lack clear indication
According to information recently reported in Svenska Dagbladet, up to 60% of prescriptions for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) lack a clear medical basis.
PPIs are one of the most common treatments for heartburn and reflux and reduce stomach acid production. For many, they provide relief, but the data suggests that healthcare providers often initiate treatment without sufficiently investigating the underlying cause of the symptoms.
Source: https://www.svd.se/a/6q329e/radet-ta-inte-onodig-medicin-mot-halsbranna
At the same time, the market is growing rapidly
Alongside the discussion on overuse, the market continues to expand.
The global proton pump inhibitor market reached USD 4.06 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 6.98 billion by 2034, corresponding to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.56%.
Source: https://www.precedenceresearch.com/proton-pump-inhibitors-market
Growth is driven by, among other factors:
- Increased prevalence of reflux and gastrointestinal disorders
- An aging population
- Greater access to medication
- Demand for rapid symptom relief
Are we treating the right problem?
Heartburn is often described as a problem caused by excess stomach acid.
However, in many cases it is not about production, but about function. A common underlying cause is that the muscles responsible for keeping the junction between the stomach and esophagus closed are not functioning optimally. When this function is impaired, stomach acid can move upwards and cause symptoms.
Source: https://www.iqoro.com/hiatal-hernia/reflux-disease-gerd/
From symptom to cause
This development highlights the need to shift the focus of treatment: from managing symptoms to understanding why they occur.
A growing area is methods that focus on strengthening the body’s function, where neuromuscular training is used to stimulates nerves and reach muscles that are otherwise difficult to engage through voluntary exercise.
Source: Franzén T., Tibbling L., Hägg M. Oral neuromuscular training relieves hernia-related dysphagia and GERD symptoms as effectively in obese as in non-obese patients. Acta Oto-Laryngologica. 2019
Risks associated with PPI use or long-term reflux
Stomach acid is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption and protection against harmful bacteria. Reducing acid levels over time can affect these functions.
Long-term PPI use
How does PPI affect the body long term? Prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can be linked to:
- Reduced absorption of nutrients such as vitamin B12, calcium, iron and magnesium
- Increased risk of infections and gut imbalance
- Higher risk of osteoporosis and fractures
Some studies also suggest a possible link to cognitive decline, although research is ongoing.
Untreated reflux (GERD)
Chronic reflux can damage the oesophagus and cause persistent inflammation.
Research also indicates that people with reflux may have a 27% higher risk of heart attack, potentially linked to inflammation and nervous system effects.
Source: www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-15227617)
Why it matters
Managing symptoms alone may not be enough. Understanding and treating the underlying cause of reflux is important for long-term health.
Conclusion
Medication for heartburn plays an important role. However, when a large proportion is used without clear indication, there is a risk that treatment becomes symptom-focused rather than cause-based.
Understanding the underlying mechanism is essential in order to choose the right treatment over time.
Editor: Josefin Bäck, IQoro.com, National marketing team
Last updated: 2026-03-31