Many people think there is no harm in consuming medications for gas or indigestion — with pantoprazole as a common ingredient — without consulting a medical practitioner. However, while it provides quick relief, having it for a long time can put stress on the kidneys, experts point out. “The bigger issue is that many treat these pills as harmless, but they actually have a strong effect on the body,” said Dr Manish Dodmani, consultant, gastroenterology, KIMS Hospitals, Thane.
Can long-term use of pantoprazole really harm the kidneys?
Yes, stressed Dr Dodmani. Notably, pantoprazole belongs to a class of medicines that reduce stomach acid. “When taken for weeks or months without a real medical reason, it can inflame the kidneys and lead to a condition called interstitial nephritis. This type of inflammation does not always show early signs, which is why the damage often goes unnoticed until it becomes serious,” said Dr Dodmani.
Dr Nikhil Bhasin, consultant nephrologist and renal transplant physician, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, said the risk lies in the fact that this inflammation often develops without noticeable symptoms. “By the time patients experience signs like swelling, fatigue, or decreased urine output, the kidneys may already be under considerable stress,” said Dr Bhasin.
Dr Bhasin explained that the kidneys function quietly, unlike the stomach or lungs do. “Many people take the medicine for months, thinking it’s harmless, while kidney injury slowly worsens in the background. Routine blood tests usually catch the problem much later when creatinine levels have already increased,” said Dr Bhasin.
Why do people feel so safe using gas tablets every day?
Since these medicines provide immediate relief, many think they are mild or harmless. “It is a strong compound that alters how the stomach works. Using it daily without supervision disrupts the body’s natural acid balance and places stress on organs that operate quietly,” said Dr Dodmani.
How can someone know if their gas medicine contains pantoprazole?
The ingredient is usually listed clearly on the package. “Anyone who regularly takes acidity tablets should check the composition. If pantoprazole is mentioned and the tablets are being used for more than a few days in a row, it’s a sign to stop and seek proper advice,” said Dr Dodmani.
Is your overuse of medication affecting your kidneys? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
People with diabetes, high blood pressure, existing mild kidney disease, and older patients are more at risk. “Even healthy young adults can develop interstitial nephritis if the drug is overused,” said Dr Bhasin.
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Is pantoprazole completely unsafe then?
Not at all, asserted Dr Dodamni. When used for the right reasons and for the right amount of time, it works very well. The problem arises when people use it as part of their daily routine without understanding its strength. The main point is clear: long-term, unsupervised use can harm the kidneys, and these pills are not meant to be taken lightly,” said Dr Dodmani.
What can people do if acidity keeps returning?
Simple habits can make a big difference. Eating meals on time, reducing oily or spicy food, cutting back on tea and coffee, avoiding late-night snacking, and managing stress are the first steps. “These often calm acidity much better than long-term medicine use without guidance. If discomfort persists, it’s better to get evaluated than to continue taking pills for months,” said Dr Dodmani.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
