Prilosec (omeprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that is used to treat heartburn, acid reflux, and stomach ulcers. PPIs work by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

In recent years, there have been concerns that long-term use of PPIs may increase the risk of certain types of cancer, including gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, and colorectal cancer.

As a result of these concerns, thousands of people have filed lawsuits against the manufacturers of PPIs, including AstraZeneca, the maker of Prilosec.

What are the allegations in the Prilosec cancer lawsuits?

The plaintiffs in the Prilosec cancer lawsuits allege that AstraZeneca knew or should have known about the risks of cancer associated with long-term use of Prilosec but failed to warn consumers about these risks.

The plaintiffs also allege that AstraZeneca marketed Prilosec for off-label uses, such as preventing heartburn, without adequate testing or evidence of safety.

Is there any scientific evidence to support the allegations in the Prilosec cancer lawsuits?

There is some scientific evidence to suggest that long-term use of PPIs may increase the risk of certain types of cancer. For example, a 2022 study published in the journal BMJ Gut found that people who took PPIs for more than five years had a 45% increased risk of gastric cancer compared to people who did not take PPIs.

However, it is important to note that the evidence is not conclusive. Other studies have not found an increased risk of cancer associated with PPI use.

What is the status of the Prilosec cancer lawsuits?

The Prilosec cancer lawsuits are currently in the early stages of litigation. The cases have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the District Court of New Jersey.

In February 2023, AstraZeneca agreed to settle a portion of the MDL for $425 million. The settlement resolves all Nexium and Prilosec claims in the U.S. except for one in Louisiana which is set to go to trial in April.

What should you do if you have taken Prilosec and are concerned about your risk of cancer?

If you have taken Prilosec and are concerned about your risk of cancer, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor can assess your individual risk factors and recommend the best course of action for you.

Conclusion

The Prilosec cancer lawsuits are still in the early stages of litigation, so it is too early to say what the outcome will be. However, the lawsuits raise important questions about the safety of long-term PPI use.

If you have taken Prilosec and are concerned about your risk of cancer, talk to your doctor.

FAQs

Q: What are the symptoms of gastric cancer?

A: The symptoms of gastric cancer can vary depending on the stage of the cancer. Early-stage gastric cancer may not cause any symptoms. As the cancer grows, it can cause symptoms such as:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Bloating
• Early satiety (feeling full after eating a small amount)
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Nausea and vomiting
• Unintentional weight loss

Q: What are the symptoms of esophageal cancer?

A: The symptoms of esophageal cancer can also vary depending on the stage of the cancer. Early-stage esophageal cancer may not cause any symptoms. As the cancer grows, it can cause symptoms such as:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Pain when swallowing
• Weight loss
• Hoarseness
• Coughing
• Heartburn

Q: What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

A: The symptoms of colorectal cancer can also vary depending on the stage of the cancer. Early-stage colorectal cancer may not cause any symptoms. As the cancer grows, it can cause symptoms such as:

• A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Weakness or fatigue
• Unintentional weight loss

Q: What are the risk factors for gastric cancer?

A: The risk factors for gastric cancer include:

• Age (gastric cancer is more common in older adults)
• Gender (men are more likely to develop gastric cancer than women)
• Race and ethnicity (gastric cancer is more common in Asian Americans and Hispanics)
• Family history of gastric cancer
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Chronic gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
• Helicobacter pylori infection (a type of bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers)
• Long-term use of PPIs

Q: What are the risk factors for esophageal cancer?

A: The risk factors for esophageal cancer include: