Magnetic Beads Create New Hope to GERD Sufferers

It is estimated that more than 20 million Americans suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Medications such as Zantac, Prilosec, etc may offer short-term relief for some sufferers of this disease. These medications decrease the acid production, but do not prevent the actual reflux in most patients.

GERD results from a weak muscle in the lower esophagus (the tube through which food passes from the mouth to the stomach). When this muscle functions properly, it acts as a protective valve between the esophagus and the stomach. It will allow food and liquid to pass, but will prevent the reflux or back flow of acidic stomach contents. In patients with GERD, the valve is weak or nonfunctional so acid can flow back into the esophagus causing damage. This damage to the esophagus can lead to more serious conditions such as esophagitis and Barrett's esophagus.

There may be new hope for GERD suffers from magnetic beads. Several medical centers around the United States and in Europe are evaluating a non-medical alternative that would prevent the reflux. The device is a flexible band made of magnetic beads called the LINX Reflux Management System. The device is placed during a 20-30 minute laparoscopic surgical procedure. The beads are made of permanent rare earth magnets encased in titanium. Each band is sized to fit the individual patient. The band “stretches” to allow food to pass, but prevents the reflux of acid.

The LINX™ device should not affect airport security, but all patients will be provided an implant card to have available in the event an issue arises.

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Source
Torax Medical, Inc
Ohio State University Medical Center
UC San Diego Medical Center

FDA issued stern warning on heartburn drug Reglan

FDA officials warn that the long-term use of metoclopramide, a drug used to treat heartburn, is linked to muscle spasms and tics.

 

Metoclopramide, which comes in a variety of forms including tablets, injections and oral solutions, speeds up the work of muscles used in digestion and subsequently treats gastrointestinal disorders particularly acid reflux and heartburn.

The drug's current labeling mentions the risk of developing the spasms called tardive dyskinesia; health officials, however, urge drug makers to highlight the warning.

Tardive dyskinesia is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the extremities, lip smacking, grimacing, tongue protrusion, and rapid eye movements or blinking.

Health officials also advise individuals to avoid the chronic use of the drug unless its benefits outweigh the risk.

According to a recently-released FDA statement, using metoclopramide (Reglan) for long periods of time or at high doses leads to involuntary and repetitive movements of the body.

The statement includes the elderly, especially women, and those who have been taking the drug for more than three months in the high-risk group.


The condition is reported to be irreversible in the majority of cases even after stopping the use of the drug.