Omeprazole, a common medication for heartburn and acid reflux, may cause skin issues due to its impact on gut bacteria, according to gut health specialist Dr Sari Arponen. Speaking on COPE Cool, she explained that prolonged use of omeprazole and similar proton pump inhibitors can alter stomach pH, disrupting the balance of gut microbiota.
Dr Arponen noted that an imbalanced gut can lead to inflammation and skin conditions such as rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and acne. Rosacea, characterised by facial redness and bumps, is linked to an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the small intestine. Atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, is associated with reduced diversity of gut bacteria.
The doctor emphasised that the gut-skin connection means medications affecting gut bacteria can manifest as skin problems. She advised taking omeprazole under medical supervision and suggested probiotics might help mitigate adverse effects. Diet also plays a role, with anti-inflammatory foods like those in the Mediterranean diet supporting both gut and skin health.
