Ulcer drugs linked to vitamin B12 deficiency

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Medication used to treat stomach ulcers may cause potentially harmful vitamin B12 deficiency, say experts.

A US study of 200,000 people in the Journal of the American Medical Association found the link.

People who took tablets known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine antagonists (H2RAs) were more likely to lack enough vitamin B12 for good health.

Left untreated, B12 deficiency can lead to dementia and neurological problems.

The study authors say doctors should still prescribe these medicines, but that they should weigh possible harms against any benefits in patients who need the drugs for prolonged periods of time.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-25314643
 
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