Inappropriate use of proton pump inhibitors

BackgroundProton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used expensive medications.AimsWe performed a cross-sectional study to determine the extent and indication of PPI use in Irish acute medical wards.MethodsFifty-five medical charts were reviewed at the beginning and end of 1 month.Results and conclusionsThirty-three patients were prescribed PPIs; 26 prior to admission. The prescribing of PPIs was concordant with guideline recommendations in only 30% of cases. Two-thirds of PPI use was unlicensed.