Which population is at increased risk for vitamin B-12 deficiency due to proton pump inhibitor use?

Which population is at increased risk for vitamin B-12 deficiency due to proton pump inhibitor use?

• A. Vegan
• B. Elderly on a PPI
• C. Woman with hypothyroidism
• D. Athlete

Answer: (B)

Proton pump inhibitors lower stomach acid, and that acid is needed to release vitamin B12 from the proteins in our food. After B12 is freed, it binds to intrinsic factor and is absorbed later in the small intestine. In older adults, stomach acid tends to be lower to begin with, and long-term PPI use further reduces acid, so less B12 is released and available for absorption. Over time, this can lead to B12 deficiency. So, the group most at risk when B12 deficiency arises specifically because of PPI use is elderly individuals taking a PPI. Vegan individuals are at risk for B12 deficiency due to dietary intake, not because of PPI use. The other options do not have a direct link to PPI-related B12 absorption impairment.

Proton pump inhibitors lower stomach acid, and that acid is needed to release vitamin B12 from the proteins in our food. After B12 is freed, it binds to intrinsic factor and is absorbed later in the small intestine. In older adults, stomach acid tends to be lower to begin with, and long-term PPI use further reduces acid, so less B12 is released and available for absorption. Over time, this can lead to B12 deficiency. So, the group most at risk when B12 deficiency arises specifically because of PPI use is elderly individuals taking a PPI.

Vegan individuals are at risk for B12 deficiency due to dietary intake, not because of PPI use. The other options do not have a direct link to PPI-related B12 absorption impairment.