A doctor has suggested that anyone taking two commonly prescribed stomach medications should ask their GPs one specific question and request a special appointment, especially if they are experiencing certain side effects. Ignoring problems can often mean they never go away or may worsen.

Sharing a clip from a recent appearance on ITV's Lorraine, NHS GP Dr Amir Khanclaimed that proton pump inhibitors are "one of the most common tablets prescribed for indigestion". He mentioned some medications that may be recommended by doctors for certain conditions, such as lansoprazole, omeprazole and pantoprazole.

The practising NHS GP claimed that these inhibitors are designed to help people manage stomach acid symptoms, but issued an important health alert that many patients across the UK should be reminded of. He told ITV daytime viewers that anyone taking these tablets should "never suddenly stop" due to the nasty side effect of rebound acid.

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Talking to Lorraine Kelly, he said: "[Proton pump inhibitors] are really good at stopping the production of acid and reducing heartburn. But acid isn't just there to create heartburn; it actually helps with digesting food and absorbing nutrients as well.

"Short-term courses of these drugs are OK. But over a long period of time, and lots of people take these for many years, they can make you deficient in certain nutrients."

Dr Khan mentioned a few areas that could become a problem, such as a lack of B12, as well as magnesium and iron. These nutrients could lead to possible brain fog, anaemia, tiredness and nerve problems.

Anyone concerned about these medications possibly causing these side effects should never stop taking them, hoping that things can return to 'normal'. Stopping your prescribed drugs for indigestion would likely lead to more stomach issues.

Instead, Dr Khan suggested asking your GP a simple question about dosage. He said: "Speak to your GP. [Ask if] you are on the lowest possible dose to maintain your symptoms? That's key because lots of people are on high doses for a long period of time."

The qualified doctor said that people might want to ask if they could "get away with" taking medication on alternating days to lessen the side effects, but keep stomach symptoms under control. Dr Khan admitted that GPs, like himself, will often prescribe a certain dose of medication, and patients will be left on it without having a proper review of the effectiveness.

Patients should be aware that they have just as much right to this kind of medication review if something still feels off, even if it's not the issue they can bring up to resolve, because there's a chance it could be linked. Dr Khan initially stressed: "Medication is really important. It helps with symptoms and can help cure illnesses. It's important people don't just stop taking their medication."

To get your GP to review your medication, contact the surgery to request a medication review appointment, which can be done in person, by phone, or via an online consultation form. Patients can prepare by listing all of their prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and side effects to ensure a thorough check is completed.

Document any side effects that you want to discuss. This is also an opportunity to tell the doctor if you are having difficulties in taking the medication or if you think the medication is not working for you.