Early Acid Suppression Therapy Exposure and Fracture in Young Children

Early-Life Exposure to Acid-Suppressive Therapy and the Development of Celiac Disease Autoimmunity

Importance

Early-life use of acid-suppressive therapy has increased over the past 2 decades. Although these medications are widely used, recent studies showed an association between early-life use of acid-suppressive therapy and various long-term outcomes, including celiac disease.

Objective

To assess the association between early-life use of acid-suppressive therapy and the risk of celiac disease autoimmunity using 2 observational approaches on a large population-based database.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The cohort study took place in Israel using Maccabi Healthcare Services data. The data were collected on December 8, 2023, and were initially analyzed from January to May 2024. Analysis of the data continued during the revision rounds that took place from October 2024 to February 2025. Children born between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2020, were included, grouped based on their exposure to acid-suppressive therapy within the first 6 months after birth and subsequently followed up for outcome development until the age of 10 years or December 8, 2023. A retrospective matched cohort design (N = 79 820) and retrospective matched test-negative case-control design (n = 24 684), including only the population tested for celiac disease autoimmunity, were used separately and compared.

Exposure

Prescription purchase of acid-suppressive therapy, either proton-pump inhibitors or histamine-2 receptor antagonists, during the first 6 months of life.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Celiac disease autoimmunity was defined as a positive anti-transglutaminase 2 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test result according to the thresholds of the commercial kits used. Time to first positive result for celiac disease autoimmunity was defined as the outcome in the cohort design, and acid-suppressive therapy use was defined as the outcome in the test-negative design.

Results

The cohort design included 79 820 children (41 319 boys with no acid-suppressive therapy use [51.8%]; median birth year, 2015 [IQR, 2011-2018]), of whom 19 955 (25.0%) used acid-suppressive therapy. The rate of celiac disease autoimmunity was significantly higher among children using acid-suppressive therapy than among those not using acid-suppressive therapy (1.6% [310 of 19 955] vs 1.0% [610 of 59 865]; P < .001). The adjusted hazard ratio of acid-suppressive therapy use for development of celiac disease autoimmunity was 1.52 (95% CI, 1.33-1.74). In the test-negative case-control design, a total of 24 684 children were included (62.2% girls; median birth year, 2012 [IQR, 2009-2016]), of whom 6176 (25.0%) were celiac disease autoimmunity positive. The rate of acid-suppressive therapy users among those who tested positive for celiac disease autoimmunity was not significant compared with those who tested negative (5.0% [309 of 6176] vs 4.6% [858 of 18 508]; P = .25). The adjusted odds ratio of a positive celiac disease autoimmunity test for acid-suppressive therapy use was 1.07 (95% CI, 0.94-1.23), which was nonsignificant compared with the population that tested negative.

Conclusions and Relevance

This retrospective study included both cohort and test-negative case-control designs. In the cohort design, acid-suppressive therapy was significantly associated with celiac disease autoimmunity. In the test-negative case-control design, this association was not significant. These results suggest a residual confounding by health care utilization in cohort designs studying celiac disease and suggest a noncausal association between acid-suppressive therapy and celiac disease autoimmunity.

Proton-Pump Inhibitors and Fat Absorption in Cystic Fibrosis and Pancreatic Insufficiency: A Randomized Crossover Pilot Trial

BACKGROUND

Dietary fat malabsorption contributes to poor nutritional status in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). Prescribing gastric acid-reducing agents such as proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) as an adjunct to pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) to improve dietary fat absorption has been accepted in clinical practice despite limited evidence.

AIMS

This was a pilot randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial of subjects aged 12 and older with CF and EPI assessed on placebo and omeprazole to determine if PPI improved the efficacy of PERT as indicated by measures of dietary fat absorption.

METHODS

Fat malabsorption via stool coefficient of fat absorption (CFA) and malabsorption blood test (MBT), gastrointestinal pH (wireless motility capsule [WMC]), and quality of life (QOL) were assessed after 14 days on both placebo or PPI (omeprazole).

RESULTS

Total 19 subjects enrolled, 13 were randomized, and 9 provided paired results on placebo and PPI. The 3 subject results for CFA were as follows: 1 increased, 1 decreased, and 1 was within the reference range in both tests for fat absorption. For 9 MBT subjects, 7 decreased and 2 increased fat absorption. For the 4 WMC studies, no change in transit times, nor in pH profiles were noted. No differences were seen in the domains of the two QOL questionnaires comparing placebo and PPI.

CONCLUSIONS

These limited descriptive pilot study results in participants with CF and EPI on PERT evaluated by stool, blood, and QOL tests did not suggest improvement in fat absorption attributable to PPI.

A review of proton pump inhibitor use in cystic fibrosis and considerations for deprescribing

Use of proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) is common among people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) both for the management of suspected GERD, as well as pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy augmentation. Despite their use, limited data exist to demonstrate a clinically significant impact of PPIs on key endpoints in pwCF. Furthermore, the advent of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator therapy may modify the need for use. These notions, coupled with the potential for adverse outcomes associated with long-term PPI use in pwCF, should facilitate re-evaluation of long-term PPI use in pwCF and promote potential deprescribing. Despite limited data on PPI deprescribing in pwCF, it intuitively mirrors the existing guidance in adults in the general population, but with added consideration given to tapering strategy, and monitoring for CF-specific outcomes such as nutritional and respiratory status. The development of a monitoring and re-initiation plan is key to reducing deprescribing inertia. This review aims to summarize the evidence that details the concern for long-term use of PPIs and provide CF clinicians with rationale and guidance on how to approach deprescribing in their practice.

Safety of Proton Pump Inhibitors in Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review

Objective. Commonly recommended drugs for adults and children include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), proven effective for treating peptic diseases like stomach ulcers, GERD, and Helicobacter pylori infections in children over 1-year-old. Yet, prolonged PPI use carries higher risks of adverse reactions, prompting this study's analysis. Methods. We have performed a systematic review of 30 articles, which include a total of 762 505 pediatric patients. Results. Adverse effects were encountered in 6.98% of the population. The 5 most common adverse effects were respiratory tract complications, gastrointestinal complications, urinary tract infections, asthma, and ENT infections. Conclusion. Hence, PPIs should be prescribed only when necessary, and physicians should prioritize patient education when considering their use.

Study on Nocturnal Infant Crying Evaluation (NICE) and Reflux Disease (RED)

BACKGROUND

Nocturnal infant crying is often empirically treated with acid suppressants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in infants with unexplained persistent crying.

METHODS

We enrolled all infants (0-12 months) referred for suspected GER disease who underwent esophageal impedance-pH monitoring (MII-pH) for unexplained persistent crying not improved by parental reassurance, dietary modification or alginate. Gastrointestinal malformation/surgery, neurological impairment and infections were exclusion criteria. Demographic and anthropometric parameters, GER symptoms and questionnaires (I-GERQ-R) and MII-pH data were recorded and analyzed. Normal MII-pH was defined when acid exposure was <3%, symptom index was <50% and symptom association probability was <95%. Acid exposure >5% and >10% was also considered. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-Square and univariate and multivariable regression analysis.

RESULTS

We included 50 infants (median age 3.5 months) who fulfilled the study criteria: 30 (60%) had normal MII-pH. I-GERQ-R score was abnormal in 33 (66%) infants, and 21/33 (64%) had normal MII-pH (p = 0.47). In the 26 (52%) infants with nocturnal crying, MII-pH was normal in 16 (54%) (p = 0.82). Associated regurgitation (>3 or >10 episodes/die) did not predict abnormal MII-pH (p = 0.74, p = 0.82, respectively). Univariate and multivariable regression analysis did not identify any clinical variable significantly associated with abnormal MII-pH.

CONCLUSIONS

Infants with persistent unexplained and nocturnal crying should not be empirically treated with acid inhibitors.

Proton pump inhibitor therapy may alter the sensory motor characteristics of pharyngoesophageal motility in infants with suspected GERD

BACKGROUND

Acid reflux index (ARI) is a biomarker for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The effects of short-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy on pharyngoesophageal motility and clearance mechanisms in infants remain unknown. We hypothesized that pharyngoesophageal reflexes and response to PPI are distinct between infants with 3%-7% and >7% ARI.

METHODS

Secondary analysis was performed from a subset of infants who participated in a randomized controlled trial (NCT: 02486263). Infants (N = 36, 29.9 ± 4.3 weeks gestation) underwent 4 weeks of PPI therapy, 1 week of washout, and longitudinal testing to assess: (a) clinical outcomes; (b) pH-impedance and symptom metrics including ARI, distal baseline impedance, clearance time, refluxate height, symptoms, I-GERQ-R scores, symptom association probability; (c) pharyngoesophageal motility reflexes and sensory motor characteristics. Comparisons were performed between infants with 3%-7% versus >7% ARI.

KEY RESULTS

From the 36 hospitalized infants treated: Pharyngoesophageal reflex latencies were prolonged (p > 0.05) and duration in ARI 3%-7% group only (p = 0.01); GER frequency, proximal ascent and clearance increased (ARI 3%-7%); weight gain velocity, oral feeding success, and fine motor score decreased while length of hospital stays increased in the ARI >7% group despite the decrease in symptoms and I-GERQ-R scores.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Distinct changes in pharyngoesophageal sensory motor aspects of motility and reflex mechanisms exist after using PPI therapy in infants. Contributory factors may include the effects of maturation and aerodigestive comorbidities (GERD and BPD). Controlled studies incorporating placebo are needed to delineate the effects of PPI on causal and adaptive GERD mechanisms in infants with aerodigestive and feeding-related comorbidities.

Infant gastroesophageal reflux disease management consensus

AIM

Infant gastroesophageal reflux is mostly benign; however, when associated with complications like failure to thrive, it may be indicative of gastroesophageal reflux disease. There are currently several unmet needs pertaining to the management of infant gastroesophageal reflux (disease). Reflux in infants is mostly composed of breast milk or formula, so this population is significantly different to older children and adults. The objective of this Delphi consensus was to establish recommendations based on published literature and the experience of clinical experts in paediatric gastroenterology in the context of infant gastroesophageal reflux (disease).

METHODS

The Delphi methodology was used to obtain a consensus on 18 statements relating to clinical aspects of infant gastroesophageal reflux (disease).

RESULTS

The expert panel comprising paediatric gastroenterology clinical specialists reached a consensus for all statements by means of an online, anonymised voting system.

CONCLUSION

It was highlighted that there is generally low awareness of or adherence to guidelines in clinical practice and that acid suppression therapy should not be indicated for non-acid reflux, which constitutes a significant proportion of total gastroesophageal reflux episodes among infants. Furthermore, it was emphasised that there is an unmet medical need for therapy for some symptomatic infants with non-acid reflux disease.

Multidisciplinary Consensus for Rationalizing the Use of Acid Suppressants in Children and Adults: CONFOR

The use of acid suppression therapy (AST) is a common approach for managing a wide spectrum of acid peptic disorders. Histamine type 2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the most widely prescribed AST in routine clinical practice. However, an exponential surge in the prescriptions of PPIs, such as Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, Pantoprazole, Lansoprazole in recent years and their associated adverse effects have raised concern about their inappropriate and overuse, both in children and adults. To address these issues, a three-step modified Delphi polling process was employed to establish best practice consensus statements for rationalizing the use of acid suppressants. A multidisciplinary expert panel of 13 health professionals across medical specialties, including gastroenterologists, hepatologists, pediatric gastroenterologists, pediatricians, otolaryngologists, cardiologists, nephrologists, gynecologist and orthopedists actively contributed to this collaborative process of consensus development. The expert panel proposed 21 consensus statements providing best practice points on the general use and safety of acid suppressants based on a comprehensive review of scientific literature and clinical expertise. The panel also collaboratively developed a PPI deprescribing algorithm. Altogether, this consensus paper offers evidence-based recommendations and guidance for the rational use of acid suppressants with a blueprint for deprescribing PPIs. This consensus paper contributes to aiding primary care practitioners in improving patient outcomes and minimizing healthcare costs. Additionally, it enhances patient safety and curtail inappropriate usage.

How to cite this article

Prabhoo RY, Pai UA, Wadhwa A, et al. Multidisciplinary Consensus for Rationalizing the Use of Acid Suppressants in Children and Adults: CONFOR. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2024;14(1):99-119.

Association of early-life exposure to acid-suppressive therapy and fractures during childhood: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

Increased acid-suppressive therapy (AST) usage during infancy is seen worldwide, while the data on the risk for paediatric fractures associated with these drugs are scarce. We aimed to evaluate the risk for fractures associated with early-life usage of AST.

METHODS

This population-based retrospective propensity-matched cohort study included children born between 2005 and 2016 who used AST during the first year of life, and a 3:1 matched unexposed group. Study subjects were followed from the end of the first year of life until the earliest of the following: an outcome event (either fracture or non-fracture injury, separately), age of 10 or August 2022. The cumulative incidence of fractures and the HR of AST for fracture and non-fracture injury as negative control were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 13 894 eligible AST users and 41 418 propensity score-matched non-users were included in the analysis. The cumulative incidence of fracture among children with AST (23.7%) was significantly (p<0.001) higher than non-users (21.7%) corresponding to an HR of 1.11 (95% CI 1.06 to 1.16). The HR for one to two AST purchases versus none was 1.09 (95% CI 1.04 to 1.14) and the HR for 3+ AST purchases versus none was 1.25 (95% CI 1.13 to 1.39). AST was also associated with injuries by an HR of 1.09 (95% CI 1.04 to 1.13).

CONCLUSIONS

AST was associated with a small but statistically significant increased incidence of fractures. We cannot exclude reporting bias or residual confounders. The clinical inference is currently unclear.

A Review of Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonist and Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Neonates and Infants

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RA) are commonly used medications in neonates and infants for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), especially in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). A literature review was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in preterm neonates, term neonates, and infants. A total of 27 studies were included in this review. Antacid medications in studies have consistently shown positive pharmacodynamic effects, including increasing gastric pH, reducing the reflux index, and reducing the number of acidic reflux events. The benefit found in placebo-controlled trials are limited exclusively to these surrogate outcomes. The actual clinically salient outcomes which H2RAs and PPIs are used for, such as reduction in GERD symptoms, especially irritability and improved feed tolerance and weight gain, have consistently shown no clinical benefit. H2RAs and PPIs appear to be extremely well tolerated by the neonatal and infant populations, which would mimic our experience with these medications in our unit. The available data from large, retrospective cohort and case-control studies paint a much more concerning picture regarding the potential for an increased risk in the development of allergies, anaphylactic reactions, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), other nosocomial infections, and lower respiratory tract infections. Given the risks associated with and lack of clinical effectiveness of both H2RAs and PPIs, use of these medications should be limited to specific clinical situations. Further studies are required to determine whether antacid pharmacologic therapy might benefit certain neonates and infants, such as those with complex medical issues.

The Impact of Two Recommended Withholding Periods for Omeprazole and the Use of a Nutraceutical Supplement on Recurrence of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome in Thoroughbred Racehorses

The impact of recommended withholding periods (RWPs) for omeprazole on the recurrence of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) is unknown. The study was designed to compare the effect of two RWPs on EGUS recurrence post-omeprazole treatment and to determine if a nutraceutical supplement would reduce EGUS recurrence when administrated during an RWP. The study was a blinded, randomized clinical trial. Part 1: Horses were allocated to an RWP0 or RWP2 and crossed over after 4-weeks. Horses received oral omeprazole once daily, except during the RWPs at the end of the treatment periods. Part 2: Horses received omeprazole for 21 days prior to an RWP2 during which they received a nutraceutical supplement. Gastroscopy was performed on Day 0 and pre- and post- RWP. Part 1: More horses were affected by Equine Squamous Gastric Disease (ESGD) after the '2-clear-days' RWP than the 'not on race-day' RWP (p = 0.012). The prevalence of ESGD post-RWP for '2-clear-days' did not differ from day 0 (p = 0.478). Part 2: The prevalence of ESGD post-RWP was lower than on Day 0 (p = 0.046). A difference in recurrence of ESGD was present between the two common RWPs. The implications of this on the welfare of Thoroughbred racehorses warrant further discussion.

Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome: An Update on Current Knowledge

Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) is a term that has been used since 1999, initially being used to describe all gastric mucosal disease in horses. Since this time, the identification of two distinct main disease entities of the equine gastric mucosa have been described under the umbrella of EGUS; these are Equine Squamous Gastric Disease (ESGD) and Equine Glandular Gastric Disease (EGGD). In 2015 the European College of Equine Internal Medicine (ECEIM) released a consensus statement defining these disease entities. This document highlighted the lack of evidence surrounding EGGD compared to ESGD, and identified knowledge gaps for further research to be directed. Subsequently, many studies on EGGD have been published, especially on pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment. This article updates current knowledge on both ESGD and EGGD as understanding has evolved since the last large-scale review.

Gastrointestinal Symptom Improvement for Infants Following Tongue-Tie Correction

Treatment of tongue-tie in infants suggests improvements for breastfeeding mothers, including reduced nipple pain and improved latching onto the breast. The effects of frenotomy on infant feeding and gastrointestinal dysfunction remain controversial, with insufficient evidence on the relationship between tongue-tie and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The purpose of this study was to compare symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) distress and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) prior to and 2 weeks following frenotomy in infants with tongue-tie. Parents were surveyed prior to frenotomy and 2 weeks post procedure, using the Gastrointestinal and Gastroesophageal Reflux (GIGER) Scale for Infants and Toddlers. Eighty-four participants completed surveys at both time points, with significant improvements in GI and GER symptoms 2 weeks after frenotomy. Younger infants and those with more severe tongue-tie had the greatest improvements in GI and GER symptoms. Infants with tongue-tie and symptoms of GI tract distress may experience improvement in symptoms after frenotomy.

Vertebral Compression Fractures in Very Early Onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease

To describe clinical characteristics and outcomes of 3 patients with very early onset inflammatory bowel disease (VEOIBD) and vertebral compression fractures.

Methods

Patients with VEOIBD receiving care at a single tertiary center were prospectively enrolled in a longitudinal data repository. Retrospective chart review was performed to identify clinical characteristics and comorbidities. Those with clinically apparent vertebral compression fractures subsequently underwent an additional chart review focused on bone health.

Results

Three out of 216 (1.4%) patients with VEOIBD had symptomatic vertebral compression fractures. Of the 3 patients with vertebral compression fractures, all had Crohn's disease, 2 had monogenic inflammatory bowel disease, and all reported back pain. One patient notably had a normal dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, highlighting a potential limitation of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to identify increased skeletal fragility in this population. Risk factors for suboptimal bone health included chronic inflammation secondary to poorly controlled inflammatory bowel disease, substantial glucocorticoid exposure, chronic use of other medications associated with suboptimal bone health including proton pump inhibitors and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, and solid organ transplant. Patients treated with bisphosphonates had improved clinical outcomes, with resolution of back pain and increased bone mineral density.

Conclusions

Vertebral compression fracture should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with VEOIBD and back pain, especially in those with other risk factors for suboptimal bone health. Treatment of compression fractures with bisphosphonates resulted in resolution of back pain and improved bone density.

Clinical Use of Gastric Antisecretory Drugs in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients

Antisecretory drugs are frequently used in the treatment of pediatric gastrointestinal disorders. This study was aimed to assess the prescribing patterns and the safety of ranitidine and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in a cohort of Italian pediatric patients. Children aged >1 month to <16 years that were admitted to our Pediatric Clinic between 2016 and 2018 were enrolled in this retrospective observational study. All data were obtained from medical records and a parent telephone questionnaire. The exclusion criteria included the use of antisecretory therapy at hospital admission, failure to collect the relevant clinical data, and failure to administer the questionnaire. This study included 461 subjects, who were divided into four age groups: <2 years, 2−5 years, 6−11 years, and ≥12 years. Ranitidine was prescribed in 396 (85.9%) patients, mainly for the acute treatment of gastrointestinal symptoms, and a PPI was given to 65 (14.1%) children to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease, gastritis/ulcer, or for gastroprotection. During the study period, the percentage of patients treated with ranitidine progressively increased, except in the 2−5-year age group. We observed eighty-seven adverse drug reactions (ADRs), 61 of which occurred in the ranitidine group and 26 in the PPI group. The most common ADR was constipation (n = 35), which occurred more frequently in children treated with PPIs and in the 6−11-year age group. Ranitidine was the most used antisecretory drug in all the age groups, especially for acute treatment. Conversely, PPIs were the drugs of choice for prolonged treatments. Further research should be focused on developing an effective and safer alternative to ranitidine.

La prise en charge médicale du reflux gastro-œsophagien chez les nourrissons en santé

Les symptômes cliniques attribués au reflux gastro-œsophagien pathologique chez les nourrissons nés à terme et en santé sont non spécifiques et rappellent des comportements adaptés à l’âge. Le présent point de pratique analyse les données probantes sur la prise en charge médicale recommandée de cette affection courante. Les recommandations à jour en vue de la prise en charge de ce type de reflux comprennent les modifications à l’alimentation, telles que l’épaississement des aliments ou l’évitement des protéines du lait de vache. Les données probantes à l’égard d’une prise en charge pharmacologique, y compris les traitements antiacides ou les agents procinétiques, sont limitées et démontrent que leurs risques sont souvent supérieurs à leurs éventuels avantages en raison des importantes préoccupations liées à l’innocuité et aux effets secondaires. Les traitements antiacides ne doivent pas être utilisés systématiquement chez les nourrissons présentant un reflux gastro-œsophagien pathologique. Ils sont plus susceptibles d’être utiles pour soigner des symptômes évocateurs d’une œsophagite érosive. Les données probantes sur la prise en charge des symptômes attribués à ce type de reflux chez les nourrissons de moins d’un an qui sont nés à terme et sont autrement en santé sont exposées, et la surprescription de médicaments est déconseillée dans cette population. Les conseils préventifs sur la résolution naturelle des symptômes de reflux sont recommandés.

Medical management of gastro-esophageal reflux in healthy infants

Clinical symptoms attributed to gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) in healthy term infants are non-specific and overlap with age-appropriate behaviours. This practice point reviews the evidence for medically recommended management of this common condition. Current recommendations to manage GERD include feeding modifications such as thickening feeds or avoiding cow's milk protein. There is limited evidence for pharmacological management, including acid suppressive therapy or prokinetic agents, with the risks of such treatments often outweighing possible benefits due to significant safety and side effect concerns. Acid-suppressive therapy should not be routinely used for infants with GERD and is most likely to be useful in the context of symptoms that suggest erosive esophagitis. Evidence for managing symptoms attributed to GERD in otherwise healthy term infants less than 1 year of age is presented, and the over-prescription of medications in this population is discouraged. Anticipatory guidance regarding the natural resolution of reflux symptoms is recommended.

Analysis of Neurodevelopment in Children Born Extremely Preterm Treated With Acid Suppressants Before Age 2 Years

Importance

Children born preterm are at increased risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes and may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of gastric acid suppression during infancy.

Objective

To assess whether early acid suppressant use in infants born extremely preterm is associated with poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Extremely Low Gestational Age Newborn study was a multicenter, longitudinal cohort study of infants born before 28 weeks' gestational age between March 22, 2002, and August 31, 2004. The current analyses were performed from September 12, 2020, through September 22, 2022. Of the 1506 infants enrolled, 284 died before discharge and 22 died before 24 months of age. An additional 2 died before age 10 years, leaving 1198 (79.5%) eligible for a visit. Of these, 889 (74%) participated in the visit at age 10. At age 10 years, the association of early-life acid suppressant use with neurocognitive, neurodevelopmental, and psychiatric symptomatology was assessed.

Exposures

Acid suppressant use before 24 months of age was determined from medical records and from questionnaires administered to mothers.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Neurodevelopmental assessments at age 10 years included the School-Age Differential Ability Scales-II, the Developmental Neuropsychological Assessment-II, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2, the Social Responsiveness Scale-2, and the Child Symptom Inventory-4 for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety.

Results

Of the 889 participants assessed at age 10 years (mean [SD] age, 9.97 [0.67] years; mean [SD] gestational age at birth, 26.1 [1.3] weeks; 455 [51.2%] male), 368 (41.4%) had received acid suppressants by 24 months of age. Associations were observed between acid suppressant use and decreased full-scale IQ z score (adjusted β, -0.29; 95% CI, -0.45 to -0.12), verbal IQ z score (adjusted β, -0.34; 95% CI, -0.52 to -0.15), nonverbal IQ z score (adjusted β, -0.22; 95% CI to -0.39 to -0.05), working memory z score (adjusted β, -0.26; 95% CI to -0.45, -0.08), autism spectrum disorder (adjusted relative risk, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.15-2.95), and epilepsy (adjusted relative risk, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.31 to 3.35). Results were robust to multiple sensitivity analyses. Use of acid suppressants was not associated with inhibitory control, ADHD, anxiety, or depression.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this cohort study suggest that early-life use of acid suppressants in extremely preterm infants may be associated with poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes and add to evidence indicating caution in use of these agents.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in children with neurological impairment: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To determine the incidence and prevalence of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) diagnosis and treatment in children with neurological impairment (NI) along with relationship to key variables.

DESIGN

This is a population-based retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

This study takes place in Alberta, Canada.

PATIENTS

Children with NI were identified by hospital-based International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes from 2006 to 2018.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Incidence and prevalence of a GERD diagnosis identified by: (1) hospital-based ICD-10 codes; (2) specialist claims; (3) dispensation of acid-suppressing medication (ASM). Age, gender, complex chronic conditions (CCC) and technology assistance were covariates.

RESULTS

Among 10 309 children with NI, 2772 (26.9%) met the GERD definition. The unadjusted incidence rate was 52.1 per 1000 person-years (50.2-54.1). Increasing numbers of CCCs were associated with a higher risk of GERD. The HR for GERD associated with a gastrostomy tube was 4.56 (95% CI 4.15 to 5.00). Overall, 2486 (24.1%) of the children were treated with ASMs of which 1535 (61.7%) met no other GERD criteria. The incidence rate was 16.9 dispensations per year (95% CI 16.73 to 17.07). The prevalence of gastrojejunostomy tubes was 1.1% (n=121), surgical jejunostomy tubes was 0.7% (n=79) and fundoplication was 3.4% (n=351).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of GERD in children with NI greatly exceeds that of the general paediatric population. Similarly, incidence rate of medication dispensations was closer to the rates seen in adults particularly in children with multiple CCCs and gastrostomy tubes. Further research is needed to determine the appropriate use of ASMs balancing the potential for adverse effects in this population.

A quality improvement initiative to reduce acid-suppressing medication exposure in the NICU

BACKGROUND

Acid-suppressing medications (ASMs) are commonly prescribed in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), in particular among preterm infants, despite well-established adverse effects and little evidence to support efficacy.

LOCAL PROBLEM

We sought to develop an initiative to reduce ASM exposure in our predominantly inborn level III NICU. Our specific aim was to reduce the number of nonindicated ASM prescriptions by 50% within a 12-month period.

METHODS

Our multidisciplinary team developed an evidence-based guideline defining indications for ASM prescription in a level III NICU. Plan-do-study-act cycles included staff education, formal clinical practice guideline implementation, and implementation of standardized documentation tools in the electronic health record (EHR). Outcome measures were the number of nonindicated and total inpatient prescriptions started per month, duration of ASM prescription, and number of prescriptions continued after NICU discharge. Balancing measures were the number of patients started on thickened feeds and number of patients discharged home on nasogastric tube feeds. We used statistical process control and Pareto charts to assess these measures over a 12-month baseline period, 9-month implementation period, and 19-month post-implementation period spanning September 2017-December 2020.

RESULTS

Nonindicated ASM prescriptions decreased from median 3 to 0 per month from the baseline to post-implementation period. Simultaneously, the median number of ASM prescriptions at discharge declined from 2 to 0 per month. The median duration of inpatient prescriptions declined from 23 to 7 days. Rates of patients started on thickened feeds and patients discharged home on nasogastric tube feeds remained stable throughout the study.

CONCLUSION

Enactment of an evidence-based guideline was associated with a substantial decline in nonindicated ASM use in our NICU and a decline in duration of exposure to ASM's when prescribed. Our interventions proved effective in altering clinical practice and could be applied to other NICUs with similar patient populations aiming to reduce ASM use.

Pediatric Prescriptions of Proton Pump Inhibitors in France (2009-2019): A Time-Series Analysis of Trends and Practice Guidelines Impact

OBJECTIVE

To describe the ambulatory proton pump inhibitor (PPI) prescription in French children, its trends, and the impact of French (2014) and international (2018) clinical guidelines.

STUDY DESIGN

We described PPI prescription rates based on national dispensation data in French children (IQVIA's Xponent database, 2009-2019). Using a segmented linear regression, we assessed the impact of clinical guidelines on PPI prescription rates. Analyses were performed for the overall pediatric population and by age subgroups (infants <2 years old, children 2-11 years old, adolescents 12-17 years old).

RESULTS

During the study period, 8 060 288 pediatric PPI prescriptions were filled, with a mean PPI prescription rate of 52.5 per 1000 inhabitants per year. Between 2009 and 2019, the PPI prescription rate increased by 41% in the overall pediatric population (+110% in infants). The PPI prescription rate showed seasonal patterns with peaks in winter. After the release of French guidelines, significant decreases in trends of prescription rates occurred overall (change in trend -0.28, 95% CI -0.34;-0.23) and across all age groups. In infants, this change in trend was not sufficient to reverse the PPI prescription rate that was still increasing over time. In children, the PPI prescription rate slightly decreased and in adolescents, it was stable. After the release of international guidelines, a significant decrease in trend occurred in adolescents only (change in trend -0.26, 95% CI -0.47; -0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

The pediatric PPI prescription rate in France was high, displayed a major increase over the last decade, mainly among infants, and was modestly affected by clinical guidelines.

Anti-reflux surgery in neonates and infants: analysis of indications, outcomes, and link to mortality among primary and secondary gastroesophageal reflux patients

Background

The indications and benefits of anti-reflux surgery (ARS) in neonates and infants are uncertain. Prematurity, operation before 1 year of age, neurological impairment (NI), and chronic lung disease (CLD) are risk factors for surgical failure. We aim to document the indications, management, and outcomes of ARS in this age group and compare them among primary and secondary gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).

Results

Between January 2008 and December 2019, 24 males and 22 females had ARS; 13 (28.3%) for primary while 33 (71.7%) for secondary GERD. The mean gestational age was 34.6 weeks (range 24–41) and mean birth weight was 2000 gm (range 600–3300). The weight at time of referral ranged from 1.4 kg to 4 kg (mean 2.2 kg). There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the previous data. The group of primary GERD presented mainly with recurrent aspiration (n = 8), recurrent apnea (n = 5), and recurrent desaturations with or shortly after feeds (n = 4). The group of secondary GERD were referred for poor sucking with failure to thrive (FTT) (n = 25), recurrent aspiration (n = 20), and gastrostomy request (n = 14). The risk factors for secondary GERD were neurologically impaired (n = 22), post-esophageal atresia (EA) repair (n = 9), hiatus hernia (n = 4), thoracic stomach (n = 2), N-type tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF, n = 4), and congenital esophageal stenosis (CES, n = 4). The operations included open Nissen’s fundoplication (ONF) (n = 4) and modified open Thal’s fundoplication (MOTF) (n = 42). There were 8 mortalities in the secondary group, unrelated to surgery. Morbidities after Nissen’s fundoplication included wrap migration, gas bloat, and reoperation in one, laparotomy for intestinal obstruction (IO) in one. Following MOTF, there were two cases of transient recurrent GERD which improved with time and laparotomy in one for IO.

Conclusions

Diagnostic tests remain a challenge. Isolated TEF and CES may require fundoplication for staged management. Cases of the primary group did better with MTFO. Prematurity, CLD and age < 2 months were not significant risk factors for fundoplication failure or mortality. Neurological impairment was a risk factor for mortality.

Initiation of acid suppression therapy for laryngomalacia

OBJECTIVE

Evidence supporting the use of acid suppression therapy (AST) for laryngomalacia (LM) is limited. The objective of this study was to determine if outpatient-initiated AST for LM was associated with symptom improvement, weight gain, and/or avoidance of surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort was reviewed at a tertiary-care children's hospital. Patients were included if they were diagnosed with LM at ≤6 months of age, seen in an outpatient otolaryngology clinic between 2012 and 2018, and started on AST. Primary outcomes were improvement of airway and dysphagia symptoms, weight gain, and need for surgery. Severity was assessed by symptom severity.

RESULTS

Of 2693 patients reviewed, 199 met inclusion criteria. Median age of diagnosis was 4 weeks (range: 0-29 weeks). LM was classified as mild/moderate (71.4%) and severe (28.6%) based on symptom severity. Severity on flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy (FFL) was not associated with clinical severity. Weight percentile, airway symptoms, and dysphagia symptoms improved within the cohort. In total, 26.1% underwent supraglottoplasty (SGP). In multivariate analysis, only severe LM on FFL was predictive of SGP (OR: 7.28, 95%CI: 1.91-27.67, p = .004).

CONCLUSION

Clinical symptom severity did not predict response to AST raising the question of utility of AST in LM. Severity of LM based on FFL, not clinical severity, was associated with decision to pursue SGP. Prospective randomized trials are needed to better understand the role of AST in LM.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3.

A multicenter cohort analysis of fractures in histamine-2-receptor antagonist treated pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Histamine 2 receptor antagonists (H2RA) are amongst the most entrenched antacid therapies available including over-the-counter. They have an excellent safety profile including no known teratogenic risk. Fracture risk is generally recognized with chronic proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy in adults and children although the related mechanism is poorly understood. The analogous risk in H2RAs, including in children, is unclear. We studied the fracture risk and characteristics among hospitalized pediatric patients exposed to H2RA compared to an untreated cohort.

METHODS

The Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) multicenter database was queried for hospital encounters of children aged 6 months - 15.5 years and between 7/2016 and 8/2017. Patients with comorbidities and medications including PPI that predispose for fractures were excluded from the cohort and a propensity-matched control was identified. The subjects and controls were followed for 2 years for hospitalization with fracture diagnoses.

RESULTS

Our cohort included 3526 patients with exposure to H2RA and matched controls. Fractures were reported in 1% of patients (67) with no statistical difference between the groups. Upper, then lower extremity fractures were the most common in both groups. Axial skeleton fractures were the least frequently encountered fractures among both groups.

CONCLUSION

H2RA exposure is not associated with an increased risk of fracture in hospitalized children exposed to H2RA when compared with a matched untreated cohort, further studies are needed to determine if long-term exposure to H2RA may be associated with fracture risk in both those with and without comorbidities or on fracture predisposing medication.

A Narrative Review on Efficacy and Safety of Proton Pump Inhibitors in Children

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most prescribed drugs worldwide and include omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole. Their use in pediatrics is approved for children older than 1 year, for the short-term treatment of symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), healing of erosive esophagitis, treatment of peptic ulcer disease, and eradication of Helicobacter pylori. PPIs are also considered the standard of care for pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis. Despite the strict range of indications, the use of this class of molecules has increased in all pediatric age ranges. The long-term gastric acid suppression in children has been linked to increased risks of gastrointestinal and lower respiratory tract infections, bone fractures, and allergy. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanism of actions, use (and misuse) in infants and children, and safety of PPIs.

Proton-Pump Inhibitors: Do Children Break a Leg by Using Them?

ABSTRACT

The risk of bone fracture in children under proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) treatment has been the subject of recent publications and naturally raises concerns among prescribing doctors, patients and their parents.Currently, there is no consistency in those risk claims according to the available evidence and an update on it is beneficial to reduce anxiety on one hand, and prompt for well-planned studies addressing the issue on the other. Furthermore, common sense and well-founded prescriptions must be the general rule for this as for any other therapeutic drug.

Acid Suppression Does Not Improve Laryngomalacia Outcomes but Treatment for Oropharyngeal Dysphagia Might Be Protective

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the use of acid suppression and thickened feeds impact laryngomalacia outcomes in infants, including supraglottoplasty risk, time to supraglottoplasty, and hospitalization risk.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a retrospective cohort study to compare risk and time with supraglottoplasty and frequency and duration of hospitalizations for infants diagnosed with laryngomalacia at Boston Children's Hospital between January 1 and December 31, 2017. The primary outcomes were supraglottoplasty requirement, time to supraglottoplasty, and hospitalization risk. Multivariate analyses were performed to determine predictors of supraglottoplasty and hospitalization risk after adjusting for laryngomalacia severity and comorbidities in addition to propensity score adjustment. Kaplan-Meier curves were created to determine the impact of acid suppression use on time to supraglottoplasty.

RESULTS

In total, 236 subjects with mean age 62.6 ± 4 days were included in the analysis; 55% were treated with acid suppression. Subjects treated with acid suppression had a greater risk of supraglottoplasty (hazard ratio 3.36, 95% CI 1.36-8.29, P = .009), shorter time to supraglottoplasty (5.64 ± 0.92 vs 7.98 ± 1.92 months, P = .006), and increased respiratory hospitalization risk (relative risk 1.97, 95% CI 1.01-3.85, 0.047), even after adjustment for covariates. Subjects receiving thickening had fewer respiratory hospitalization nights and longer time to supraglottoplasty (9.3 ± 1.7 vs 4.56 ± 0.73 months, P = .004), even after adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

Acid suppression use does not reduce the frequency of supraglottoplasty and related hospitalizations compared with untreated subjects. However, patients treated with thickening have decreased hospitalization and longer time to supraglottoplasty, suggesting that thickening of feeds may be a preferred intervention over acid suppression.

Use of acid-suppressive drugs and risk of fracture in children and young adults: a meta-analysis of observational studies

BACKGROUND

Acid-suppressive drugs (ASDs) are being used by increasing number of children and young adults. However, evidence for a relationship between ASD use and the risk of fracture in these groups of patients is conflicting. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the risk of fracture in children and young adults exposed to ASDs.

METHODS

A literature search was performed using the PUBMED, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to November 2020. Pooled relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to determine the relationship of ASD use with fracture risk in children and young adults.

RESULTS

Six studies reporting the outcomes of more than 900,000 children and young adults with ASD use were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled RR for fracture with the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) versus non-use of these medications was 1.17 (95% CI = 1.1-1.25; P < 0.001) in children and 1.2 (95% CI = 0.87-1.65; P = 0.272) in young adults. By contrast, the use of histamine H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) was not significantly associated with fracture risk in children (RR, 1.08, 95% CI = 0.99-1.17; P = 0. 083) or young adults (RR, 1.08, 95% CI = 0.82-1.42; P = 0.589). Significant statistical and clinical heterogeneity among studies were determined for the main analysis and most of the subgroup analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides evidence linking PPI use to an increased risk of fracture in children. Thus, the use of PPIs in these patients should be carefully considered. However, randomized controlled studies are needed to determine causality and the role of unmeasured/residual confounding factors in this association.

Adverse reactions related to proton pump inhibitors in pediatric population: an analysis of spontaneous reporting data

BACKGROUND

The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has increased in the last 10 years in children. Data regarding their safety profile are limited. The aim of this study was to analyze data from the Italian spontaneous reporting system (SRS) database to evaluate the incidence and characteristics of PPI-related adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in children.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was an observational, retrospective study analyzing PPI-related ADR reports in children in the Italian SRS database between January 1^st, 2001, and December 31^st, 2020. ADRs were coded according to the system organ class term level. Factors associated with ADR seriousness were investigated.

RESULTS

Seventy spontaneous reports of ADRs related to PPIs were analyzed. Esomeprazole and lansoprazole caused the highest number of ADRs equally (27% respectively), and the most frequently reported ADRs presented with gastrointestinal (24%) and/or skin manifestations (21.3%). More than a half of PPI prescriptions were off label for pediatric population. Serious ADRs were 19 (27.1%). Serious ADRs were more frequent in reports presenting PPIs combined with other drugs in comparison to reports with PPI single therapies (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

PPI-related ADRs in children are mostly not serious, and combination therapy seems to be associated with ADR seriousness.

Objective Improvement After Frenotomy for Posterior Tongue-Tie: A Prospective Randomized Trial

OBJECTIVE

Infants with posterior tongue-tie (PTT) can have substantial difficulty with breastfeeding and bottle-feeding. This study aimed to address the dearth in investigational objective data surrounding PTT release to better quantify the postoperative impacts of frenotomy for ankyloglossia.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective randomized, controlled trial.

SETTING

Private practice clinic.

METHODS

In a prospective, randomized controlled trial, infants 3 to 16 weeks of age with PTT undergoing frenotomy were examined using a bottle-feeding system capable of objectively measuring tongue function. Validated patient-reported outcome measures were also obtained simultaneously.

RESULTS

Forty-seven infants with PTT were enrolled into an observational/control arm (n = 23) or interventional/surgical treatment arm (n = 24). The total cohort consisted of 29 (61.7%) male infants with a median age of 39 days. At the day 10 time point, the interventional arm demonstrated statistically significant improvement in 11 objectively obtained feeding metrics, indicating faster tongue speed, more rhythmic and coordinated sucking motions, and a tongue more capable of adapting to varying feeding demands. Significant improvement in breastfeeding self-efficacy was reported in the interventional group while poor self-confidence persisted in the observational group. Infant reflux symptoms improved in the interventional group while not in the control group. Nipple pain also persisted in the control group but improved in the surgical cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

When measured 10 days after frenotomy for PTT, infants improve feeding parameters using an objective bottle-feeding system. Similar improvements are seen with patient-reported outcomes when PTT is released. Posterior tongue-tie is a valid clinical concern, and surgical release can improve infant and maternal symptoms.

Acid-Suppressive Drugs and Risk of Fracture in Children and Young Adults: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

Background: Recent studies have suggested that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine type 2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) may increase the risk of fracture. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the risk of fracture with PPIs and H2RAs use in children and young adults.

Methods: PubMed, EMBASE database, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science for relevant articles published before May 2021 were searched. We included all the observational studies reporting on the risk of fracture with acid-suppressive drug (PPIs and H2RAs) use in children and young adults. We calculated pooled risk ratios (RRs) for fracture using random-effects models and conducted subgroup analyses.

Results: A total of six studies were included in our analysis. Pooled analysis of PPIs use showed significant risk for fracture (RR = 1.23; 95% CI, 1.12–1.34; I² = 79.3), but not significant for PPIs combined with H2RAs use (RR = 1.22; 95% CI, 0.94–1.60; I² = 44.0%), as well as for H2RAs use alone (RR = 1.08; 95% CI, 0.94-1.24; I² = 84.1%). Grouping of studies by region showed a significantly increased fracture risk with PPIs use in North America (RR = 1.24; 95% CI, 1.16–1.32; I² =0.0%) than in Europe (RR = 1.23; 95% CI, 1.00–1.52; I² = 94.6%) and Asia (RR = 1.10; 95% CI, 0.96–1.25). However, there was no significant association between the H2RAs use and the fracture risk in North America (RR = 1.08; 95% CI, 1.00–1.09; I² = 0.0%). Moreover, PPIs use showed an increased risk of fracture in women (RR = 1.13; 95% CI, 1.07–1.19; I² = 0.0%), whereas there was no significant association between the PPIs use and the risk of fracture in men (RR = 0.93; 95% CI, 0.66–1.31; I² = 0.0%).

Conclusion: PPIs use alone could increase the risk of fracture in children and young adults, but not for PPIs combined with H2RAs use or H2RAs use alone. Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing PPIs for patients.

Bone Health in Pediatric Patients with IBD: What Is New?

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have increased bone fragility, demonstrated by increased fracture risk, and often have low bone density and altered bone geometry, but the underlying pathophysiology remains poorly understood.

RECENT FINDINGS

Children and adolescents with IBD appear to have decreased bone formation, at diagnosis, which frequently improves with treatment of their underlying IBD. There is a growing body of evidence regarding how the immune system interacts with bone metabolism. There are likely multi-factorial etiologies that contribute to suboptimal bone accrual and subsequent lack of peak bone mass attainment in growing patients with IBD. There appears to be differential effects dependent upon IBD sub-type and bone compartment. Pediatric patients with IBD require recognition of several risk factors that may adversely impact their bone accrual. Future studies are necessary to further delineate the effects of IBD on pediatric bone health.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common disorder in adults and children. The global prevalence of GERD is high and increasing. Non-erosive reflux disease is the most common phenotype of GERD. Heartburn and regurgitation are considered classic symptoms but GERD may present with various atypical and extra-oesophageal manifestations. The pathophysiology of GERD is multifactorial and different mechanisms may result in GERD symptoms, including gastric composition and motility, anti-reflux barrier, refluxate characteristics, clearance mechanisms, mucosal integrity and symptom perception. In clinical practice, the diagnosis of GERD is commonly established on the basis of response to anti-reflux treatment; however, a more accurate diagnosis requires testing that includes upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy and reflux monitoring. New techniques and new reflux testing parameters help to better phenotype the condition. In children, the diagnosis of GERD is primarily based on history and physical examination and treatment vary with age. Treatment in adults includes a combination of lifestyle modifications with pharmacological, endoscopic or surgical intervention. In refractory GERD, optimization of proton-pump inhibitor treatment should be attempted before a series of diagnostic tests to assess the patient's phenotype.

Drugs in Focus: Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are amongst the most commonly prescribed drugs in infants and children with the last decades witnessing a dramatic rise in their utilization. Although PPIs are clearly effective when used appropriately and have been regarded as safe drugs, there is growing evidence regarding their potential adverse effects. Although, largely based on adult data it is clear that many of these are also relevant to pediatrics. PPI use potentially affects gastrointestinal microbiota composition and function, decreases defence against pathogens resulting in increased risk for infections, interferes with absorption of minerals and vitamins leading to specific deficiencies and increased risk for bone fractures as well as interferes with protein digestion resulting in increased risk of sensitization to allergens and development of allergic diseases and eosinophilic esophagitis. An association with gastric, liver and pancreatic cancer has also been inferred from adult data but is tenuous and causation is not proven. Overall, evidence for these adverse events is patchy and not always compelling. Overall, the use of PPIs, for selected indications with a good evidence base, has significant potential benefit but carries more caution in infants and children. Pediatricians should be aware of the concerns regarding the potential adverse events associated with their use.

Comparison of Aerodigestive and Nonaerodigestive Provider Responses to Clinical Case Vignettes

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate differences in practice patterns between aerodigestive and nonaerodigestive providers in pediatric gastroenterology when diagnosing and treating common aerodigestive complaints.

STUDY DESIGN

A questionnaire comprised of clinical vignettes with multiple-choice questions was distributed to both aerodigestive and nonaerodigestive pediatric gastroenterologists. Vignettes focused on management of commonly encountered general gastroenterology and aerodigestive issues, such as gastroesophageal (GE) reflux, aspiration, and feeding difficulties. Tests of equal proportions were used to compare rates of testing and empiric therapy within and across groups. Multivariate analysis was used to assess differences in response rates between aerodigestive and nonaerodigestive providers.

RESULTS

A total of 88 pediatric gastroenterologists from 18 institutions completed the questionnaire. There were 35 aerodigestive gastroenterology providers and 53 nonaerodigestive gastroenterology providers. The nonaerodigestive group included 31 general gastroenterologists and 22 providers with self-identified subspecialty gastroenterology expertise. Aerodigestive specialists were more likely than nonaerodigestive gastroenterologists to pursue testing over empiric therapy in cases involving isolated respiratory symptoms (P < .05); aerodigestive providers were more likely to recommend pH-impedance testing, videofluoroscopic swallow studies, and upper gastrointestinal barium study (P < .05 for each test) depending on the referring physician. For vignettes involving infant GE reflux, both groups chose empiric treatments more frequently than testing (P < .001), although aerodigestive providers were more likely than nonaerodigestive providers to pursue testing like upper gastrointestinal barium studies (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although some practice patterns were similar between groups, aerodigestive providers pursued more testing than nonaerodigestive providers in several clinical scenarios including infants with respiratory symptoms and GE reflux.

Role of feeding strategy bundle with acid-suppressive therapy in infants with esophageal acid reflux exposure: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that a feeding bundle concurrent with acid suppression is superior to acid suppression alone in improving gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) attributed-symptom scores and feeding outcomes in neonatal ICU infants.

METHODS

Infants (N = 76) between 34 and 60 weeks' postmenstrual age with acid reflux index > 3% were randomly allocated to study (acid-suppressive therapy + feeding bundle) or conventional (acid-suppressive therapy only) arms for 4 weeks. Feeding bundle included: total fluid volume < 140 mL/kg/day, fed over 30 min in right lateral position, and supine postprandial position. Primary outcome was independent oral feeding and/or ≥6-point decrease in symptom score (I-GERQ-R). Secondary outcomes included growth (weight, length, head circumference), length of hospital stay (LOHS, days), airway (oxygen at discharge), and developmental (Bayley scores) milestones.

RESULTS

Of 688 screened: 76 infants were randomized and used for the primary outcome as intent-to-treat, and secondary outcomes analyzed for 72 infants (N = 35 conventional, N = 37 study). For study vs. conventional groups, respectively: (a) 33% (95% CI, 19-49%) vs. 44% (95% CI, 28-62%), P = 0.28 achieved primary outcome success, and (b) secondary outcomes did not significantly differ (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Feeding strategy modifications concurrent with acid suppression are not superior to PPI alone in improving GERD symptoms or discharge feeding, short-term and long-term outcomes.

IMPACT

Conservative feeding therapies are thought to modify GERD symptoms and its consequences. However, in this randomized controlled trial in convalescing neonatal ICU infants with GERD symptoms, when controlling for preterm or full-term birth and severity of esophageal acid reflux index, the effectiveness of acid suppression plus a feeding modification bundle (volume restriction, intra- and postprandial body positions, and prolonged feeding periods) vs. acid suppression alone, administered over a 4-week period was not superior in improving symptom scores or feeding outcomes. Restrictive feeding strategies are of no impact in modifying GERD symptoms or clinically meaningful outcomes. Further studies are needed to define true GERD and to identify effective therapies in modifying pathophysiology and outcomes. The improvement in symptoms and feeding outcomes over time irrespective of feeding modifications may suggest a maturational effect. This study justifies the use of placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial among NICU infants with objectively defined GERD.

Use of anti-reflux medications in infants under 1 year of age: a retrospective drug utilization study using national prescription reimbursement data

Non-specific symptoms such as irritability, vomiting, and back arching during the infant period are often attributed to gastroesophageal reflux. While numerous studies have shown no significant benefit to the use of acid suppressant medications in this population, these medications are frequently prescribed in response to these symptoms. Our goals were to understand how often children were being prescribed this medication. To do this, data was extracted from a national database for reimbursement of prescribed medications through the General Medical Services scheme (GMS). Infants aged less than 1 year and eligible for reimbursement under GMS were included for analysis. A total of 450 infants per 10,000 eligible population received an anti-reflux preparation from the following drug classes (H2 antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, or alginate preparations) in 2018. This is compared with that in 2009 where only 137 per 10,000 eligible infants received these medications. This increase was predominantly attributable to an increase in ranitidine prescriptions.Conclusion: Despite a change in clinical guidelines, anti-reflux preparations are increasingly being prescribed to infants aged less than 1 year. The reasons behind the increase in prescriptions containing these medications cannot be ascertained from this data. This may suggest a proportion of these prescriptions may be unwarranted in this population. What is Known: • The prescription of PPIs in infants has increased in a number of countries. • Use of anti-reflux medications has a very poor evidence base in infancy. What is New: • This data focuses only on an infant age group in a "well" cohort. • Ranitidine may contribute to increased acid-suppressant use in infancy.

Safety considerations when managing gastro-esophageal reflux disease in infants

Introduction: Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) in infants is worldwide diagnosed with increasing frequency, resulting in an increasing number of infants exposed to treatment. In this review, we focus on the safety of therapeutic options. Areas covered: English articles were searched from 1990 until May 2020 in PubMed and Google Scholar. Evidence suggests that non-pharmacological treatment is often effective and safe. Guidelines restrict pharmacological treatment to acid-suppressive medication, which is associated with adverse effects, often related to gastro-intestinal dysbiosis and consequences of the latter. Aluminum-free alginates have some efficacy and are not associated with relevant adverse effects. Especially in infants, GERD is often nonacid related. Prokinetics are not recommended because of lack of efficacy and numerous adverse effects. Expert opinion: Pediatric trials are underpowered regarding adverse effects. The number of infants exposed to anti-secretory agents is increasing worldwide, often without indication. Informing healthcare providers about adverse effects of acid-secretory medication may contribute to a more rational use. Acid inhibiting agents such as alginates are a drug class associated with limited efficacy and devoid of serious adverse effects. Regarding prokinetics, the risk of adverse effects outweighs the benefit. Reassurance of parents and nutritional management of GERD in infants is effective and safe.

Reflux: When Is It More Than a Laundry Problem?

Despite growing cautionary evidence against routine pharmacologic management of infant reflux, proton-pump inhibitors and H2-receptor antagonists are regularly asked for and prescribed at pediatric well-visits in the first year of life. It is important to distinguish between physiologic gastroesophageal reflux and gastroesopheal reflux disease, even though the symptoms can seem interchangeable and overlap with other normal developmental phenomena and common conditions, such as cow's milk protein intolerance. Careful history, ample anticipatory guidance, and nonpharmacologic intervention should be attempted before consideration of acid suppression therapy in the first year of life. If the general clinician feels medication is warranted in the absence of clear indicating medical comorbidities, consultation with a pediatric gastroenterologist should be considered. [Pediatr Ann. 2020;49(8):e329-e331.].

Reducing Antacid Use in a Level IV NICU: A QI Project to Reduce Morbidity

Introduction

Gastroesophageal reflux is a physiologic occurrence in infants. Clinicians caring for neonates use histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2As) or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for symptomatic reflux, apnea/bradycardia/desaturations, or irritability. Recent studies have shown that there is an increased incidence of infection, fracture, and mortality in neonates who receive antacids.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team aimed to decrease nonindicated antacid use in the NICU by 50% by April 2019. Outcome measures include the median number of inappropriate antacid prescriptions and patient-days on acid-suppressants. Interventions include education regarding use and risks of antacids, development of a list of indications deemed "appropriate" for starting an H2A or PPI, mandatory discussion on rounds when considering antacids, documentation of treatment goal, and indication, and an automatic drop-off in the electronic medical record.

Results

Baseline data (June-December 2017) showed 19 prescriptions of H2As or PPIs. Of those, 10 orders were deemed "inappropriate," according to our indicated uses. There were 407 total patient-days of medication-use (median: 51 patient-days). After the implementation of the interventions (October 2018-May 2019), there were 11 prescriptions of antacid medications, 3 of which were deemed "inappropriate." There were 206 total days of medication-use (median: 18.5 patient-days).

Conclusions

A multidisciplinary agreement on indications for antacid use in neonates stimulates discussion and creates more purposeful use. Overall, we successfully decreased nonindicated antacid prescriptions in the NICU. For the next steps, we hope to educate physicians on the risks of antacid use and reduce prescriptions in other areas of the hospital and the outpatient setting.

Proton Pump Inhibitors in Children: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The evidence supporting or contesting the prescription of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for children and updates on side effects are reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS

PPIs remain an important therapeutic option for esophagitis and gastritis. However, recent studies demonstrate no benefit when prescribing PPIs for chronic cough, infantile reflux, asthma, or functional gastrointestinal disorders. Recent studies suggest adverse effects on microbiome diversity and immune function, resulting in increased rates of gastrointestinal infections, bone fractures, and atopic disorders. PPIs influence a variety of cell types within the in the innate and adaptive immune systems. PPI prescriptions in children may be indicated for select conditions; however, multiple side effects and immune effects have been described. While most of these side effects are rare and mild, some studies suggest enduring adverse effects. Future studies to elucidate the mechanism behind some of these immune and infectious complications will be beneficial.

Association Between Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Risk of Fracture in Children

IMPORTANCE

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use has been linked to increased risk of fracture in adults. Despite a trend in prescription of PPIs in children, there is scarce evidence regarding this safety concern in pediatric patients.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between PPI use and risk of fracture in children.

DESIGN

This nationwide register-based cohort study included data from Sweden from July 2006 to December 2016. Children younger than 18 years who initiated PPI use were matched on propensity score and age with those who did not initiate PPI use.

EXPOSURE

Initiation of PPI use.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Cox regression was adopted to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for a first fracture of any type and 5 subtypes of fracture, with follow-up for up to 5 years. To address potential residual confounding, high-dimensional propensity score matching and a direct comparison with histamine-2 receptor antagonists were performed.

RESULTS

There were a total of 115 933 pairs of children included. During a mean (SD) of 2.2 (1.6) years of follow-up, 5354 and 4568 cases of any fracture occurred among those who initiated PPIs vs those who did not, respectively (20.2 vs 18.3 events per 1000 person-years; hazard ratio [HR], 1.11 [95% CI, 1.06-1.15]). Use of PPIs was associated with increased risk of upper-limb fracture (HR, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.03-1.13]), lower-limb fracture (HR, 1.19 [95% CI, 1.10-1.29]), and other fractures (HR, 1.51 [95% CI, 1.16-1.97]) but not head fracture (HR, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.76-1.13]) or spine fracture (HR, 1.31 [95% CI, 0.95-1.81]). The HRs for fracture according to cumulative duration of PPI use were 1.08 (95% CI, 1.03-1.13) for 30 days or less, 1.14 (95% CI, 1.09-1.20) for 31 to 364 days, and 1.34 (95% CI, 1.13-1.58) for 365 days or more. The association was consistent in most sensitivity analyses, including high-dimensional propensity score matching (HR, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.06-1.15]), although the analysis of PPI vs histamine-2 receptor antagonist did not reach statistical significance (HR, 1.06 [95% CI, 0.97-1.15]).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this large pediatric cohort, PPI use was associated with a small but significant increased risk of any fracture. Risk of fracture should be taken into account when weighing the benefits and risks of PPI treatment in children.

The Clinical Characteristics of Fractures in Pediatric Patients Exposed to Proton Pump Inhibitors

OBJECTIVES

There are increasing concerns regarding proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and the risk of fractures in adults. Few studies have evaluated this risk among pediatric patients. This study examined fractures and fracture location among pediatric patients exposed to PPI compared with those without documented exposure.

STUDY DESIGN

Encounters for patients 6 months to 15.5 years were identified between July 1, 2011 to December 31, 2015 in the Pediatric Hospital Information System database. Exclusion criteria was applied for chronic illnesses, conditions or medications predisposing to fracture. Encounters were classified as PPI encounters if a charge for PPI was documented. PPI encounters were propensity matched to non-PPI encounters. Following initial encounter, patients were evaluated over a 2-year period for hospitalizations resulting from fracture.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant higher rate of fractures among the PPI-exposed group (1.4% vs 1.2%, P = 0.019). Adjusting for remaining differences in sex, race, encounter type, payer, and resource intensity after matching, the difference remained statistically significant (P = 0.017) with an adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) of 1.2 (1.0--1.4). Upper extremity was the most common location for fracture; however, the PPI cohort was more likely to suffer from lower extremity, rib, and spinal fractures (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests an increased risk of fracture among pediatric patients taking PPI. Among patients hospitalized with a fracture, those with PPI exposure had a higher rate of lower extremity, rib, and spine fractures compared with controls. This appeared to be a class effect not related to individual PPI agent.