Treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

How effective are PPIs in the treatment of EoE?

PPIs, which are normally prescribed for gastric reflux disease, have been shown to be effective in people with EoE. Approximately 50% of patients experience a reduction in eosinophil levels in the oesophagus after six to eight weeks of treatment.⁷ However, the reduction in levels does not always mean an improvement or resolution of symptoms.

What are the side effects/limitations of using PPIs?

PPIs are considered relatively safe. The most common side effects include headaches, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting and the development of a type of non-cancerous growth in the stomach.