Omeprazole, esomeprazole, cimetidine and famotidin linked to painful side effect

Omeprazole, esomeprazole, cimetidine and famotidin linked to painful side effectA recent study found an 'association' between the common drugs with a warning to 'speak to your GP'CommentsNewsNeil Shaw Assistant Editor (Money and Lifestyle)14:59, 18 Apr 2026View 3 ImagesA woman suffering a severe headacheAcid reflux drugs may trigger migraine, according to recent reserach, and scientists found that people who take acid-reducing tablets may be at higher risk of suffering the debilitating headaches than those who don't. The drugs include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole and esomeprazole, histamine H2-receptor antagonists, or H2 blockers, such as cimetidine and famotidine, and antacid supplements.‌But scientists cautioned that the study does not prove that acid-reducing drugs cause migraine, rather it only shows an association. Acid reflux is when stomach acid flows into the oesophagus, usually after a meal or when lying down.‌People with acid reflux may suffer heartburn and ulcers, while those with frequent acid reflux may develop gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) - which can lead to cancer of the oesophagus. Study author Professor Margaret Slavin, of the University of Maryland, said: “Given the wide usage of acid-reducing drugs and these potential implications with migraine, these results warrant further investigation.‌View 3 ImagesMillions of people take drugs like omeprazole“These drugs are often considered to be overprescribed, and new research has shown other risks tied to long-term use of proton pump inhibitors, such as an increased risk of dementia.”‌The research team analysed data from more than 11,800 people who provided information on use of prescribed acid-reducing drugs and whether they suffered migraine or severe headaches in the previous three months. One in four participants taking PPIs (25 per cent) had migraine or severe headaches, compared to 19 per cent of those who were not taking the drugs.A total of 25...