How do PPIs cause?

PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors) cause their effects by blocking acid production in the stomach.

Here's a breakdown of how PPIs work:

• Targeting the Acid-Producing Cells: PPIs specifically target the parietal cells located in the lining of the stomach. These cells are responsible for producing hydrochloric acid (HCl), a crucial component of gastric juice.

• Blocking the Proton Pump: Parietal cells use a "proton pump" (H+/K+-ATPase enzyme) to pump hydrogen ions (H+) into the stomach. This action is what creates the acidic environment. PPIs work by irreversibly binding to and inhibiting this proton pump.

• Reducing Acid Secretion: By blocking the proton pump, PPIs significantly reduce the amount of acid secreted into the stomach. This allows the stomach lining to heal in cases of ulcers or inflammation and reduces the frequency and severity of heartburn symptoms.

• Mechanism of Action Summary:

  1. PPIs enter the bloodstream after ingestion.
  2. They travel to the parietal cells in the stomach lining.
  3. PPIs bind to the H+/K+-ATPase enzyme (proton pump).
  4. This binding inhibits the pump's function, thereby reducing acid secretion.

In summary, PPIs exert their effects by directly interfering with the mechanism by which the stomach produces acid, leading to a significant reduction in stomach acidity.