How do proton pump inhibitors reduce stomach acid production?
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2 Answers
Proton pump inhibitors work by inhibiting the proton pump, which is responsible for the final stage of acid production in the stomach. By blocking this pump, less acid is produced, which can decrease symptoms of acid reflux and peptic ulcers. This is achieved by reducing the number of hydrogen ions being transported into the stomach.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce stomach acid production by inhibiting the hydrogen-potassium ATPase enzyme, also known as the proton pump, in the parietal cells of the stomach. This enzyme is responsible for pumping hydrogen ions into the stomach, which creates an acidic environment necessary for digestion. By blocking the proton pump, PPIs reduce the amount of acid produced, which can help to relieve symptoms of acid-related disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcer disease.