What conditions do proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) typically treat?

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are primarily used to treat conditions related to excess stomach acid. These medications work by irreversibly blocking the proton pump in the stomach lining, which is responsible for producing gastric acid. Consequently, they significantly reduce the secretion of stomach acid.

The most common conditions that PPIs are prescribed for include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and irritation. Additionally, they are effective in managing peptic ulcers, which are sores on the stomach lining or the first part of the small intestine. By decreasing stomach acid production, PPIs help promote healing of these ulcers and alleviate symptoms associated with acid overproduction.

This specific action on gastric acid makes PPIs less relevant for treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart failure, dyslipidemia, infections, or immune disorders, which are managed through different classes of medications. Therefore, the effectiveness of PPIs aligns closely with managing excess stomach acid conditions, supporting the choice of that answer.