Title: Assessing the impact of a pharmacist-led proton pump inhibitor deprescribing initiative on the pattern of proton pump inhibitor use.
Authors: Min Jung Jo, PharmD; Kelsey Ryan, PharmD
Objective: Audience members will be able to describe the impact of a pharmacist-led proton pump inhibitor (PPI) deprescribing initiative on the pattern of PPI use.
Self-Assessment Question: How can pharmacists promote appropriate use of PPIs in hospital settings?
Background: While proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can effectively treat acid-related gastrointestinal disorders, overuse during hospital admissions is an ongoing concern. Pharmacist-led interventions can reinforce appropriate use of PPIs.
Methods: This pre- and post-implementation study evaluated the pattern of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use in two publicly funded hospitals and assessed the impact of a pharmacist-led PPI deprescribing initiative after a proposed intervention. Pre-intervention data came from patients with an active PPI order between September 2024 and August 2025. Patients who were hospitalized for less than 3 months or already discharged were excluded. Data collected included treatment duration, indication, deprescribing attempts, and reported adverse effects associated with long-term use. The intervention included an in-service presentation focused on PPI deprescribing and an evidence-based deprescribing algorithm for providers to reference. Post-intervention data included PPI orders discontinued, dose or frequency adjustments, or change to a different antisecretory agent.
Results: Prior to intervention, 98 patients were identified for data analysis. Thirty-seven (37.8%) had an appropriate indication for long-term PPI use. There were 91 (92.9%) patients who were prescribed a PPI for more than 3 months. PPI use beyond 1 year was seen in 43 (43.9%) patients, half of which experienced hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, or C. difficile related diarrhea. Deprescribing attempts were documented in 32 (23.5%) patients. Post-implementation preliminary data includes 86 patients. PPI deprescribing attempts were made in 21 (24.4%) patients. Data collection is ongoing; results may be updated.
Conclusion: Findings from this study suggest that pharmacist-led interventions may reinforce more safe and effective use of PPIs.
