Reduce unnecessary use of stomach protectors

Contracted care

Stomach protectors Antacids Medication Safety NSAID PPI TARs

Reduce unnecessary use of stomach protectors

The pharmacy is committed to reducing the unnecessary use of stomach protectors - after stopping painkillers or blood thinners. Gastric protectors protect your stomach while taking these medications because they can cause an ulcer, for example. After you stop taking an anticoagulant medication or painkiller, stomach protectors are often no longer necessary. Here's how we can help you with this.

Why should you stop using antacids unnecessarily?

Stomach protectors are often prescribed to prevent stomach upset while taking certain medications such as painkillers. But sometimes people continue to use these antacids even when they have long since stopped needing the original medications. This can lead to unnecessary medication use, side effects and additional costs. Never stop without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.

I didn't know so much that the pharmacist also helps to phase out medications. Good thing I stopped the omeprazole I was taking via the step-by-step plan

Eric, age 70

How can we help you?

Evaluating your medicine use:We check if you really still need the stomach protector. If you have been taking stomach protectants for more than 12 months, we will see if it is still needed.

Example: You used stomach protectors to prevent stomach upset during a course of painkillers, but stopped taking them months ago while continuing to use the stomach protectors.

Intervention for long-term users: We help you stop taking stomach protectors when you no longer need them.

Example: You no longer need painkillers or stomach protectors, but are still taking stomach protectors. We discuss with you the possibility of tapering the antacids. We'll create a schedule for you to reduce the dosage of antacids step by step and explain what you can do in case of any recurring stomach upset.

What are the benefits for you?

Reduce unnecessary medication: By stopping unnecessary antacids, you reduce the risk of side effects and make your medication use easier.
Health benefits: Less medication use can improve your overall health and reduce the risk of complications.
Cost savings: You save on the cost of unnecessary medications, which benefits both you and the health care system.

How do we do it?

During a medication consultation, we review your medication and discuss together, based on a tapering schedule, how to safely stop taking gastric protectors. Our support is available through the Zorgsignaal program we use for this, where we guide you step by step.

What do health insurers expect?

With Zilveren Kruis, ONVZ and ASR, we have agreed to work to reduce the use of stomach protectors in patients who no longer need these medications. Together with you, we are working on better health and less use of medication. Have questions? Get in touch with us.