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Without a corresponding study of bone densities, it’s not possible to determine whether the link between proton-pump inhibitors and increased fractures in people over age 50 is due to increased numbers of falls (dizziness, etc.) or to bone damage. It would be extremely helpful to try to tease out the cause behind this linkage.

Dan Winicur
West Chester, Pa.

Some falls could be attributed to dizziness caused by a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI). But tests have shown that less than 2 percent of people taking omeprazole (Prilosec), a commonly used PPI, report dizziness. In contrast, this drug and other PPIs reduce acid production substantially in volunteers, leading scientists to investigate a connection between that effect and bone fractures. —N. Seppa