A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON CHANGES IN RENAL FUNCTION PARAMETERS AMONG PATIENTS RECEIVING PROTON PUMP INHIBITORS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Background: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely prescribed for acid-related disorders. Emerging evidence suggests potential renal adverse effects with prolonged use. Objectives: To evaluate changes in renal function parameters among patients receiving prolonged PPI therapy and to assess comparative trends and pharmacoeconomic aspects. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over six months at a tertiary care hospital. Adult patients receiving continuous PPI therapy were included. Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA. Results: Of 400 enrolled patients, 360 completed the 6-month follow-up. Mean BUN increased from 20.03 ± 6.30 mg/dL to 27.99 ± 6.39 mg/dL (p < 0.001). Mean serum creatinine increased from 0.83 ± 0.23 mg/dL to 1.50 ± 0.12 mg/dL (p < 0.001). A clinically significant rise in serum creatinine (≥0.3 mg/dL) was observed in some patients. Descriptive trends suggested higher absolute changes among patients receiving pantoprazole, likely reflecting prescribing predominance. Omeprazole demonstrated lower treatment cost. Conclusion: Prolonged PPI therapy was associated with significant changes in renal function parameters. Periodic monitoring and rational prescribing are recommended.