The BBC doctor revealed his verdict after a new study claimed many people might be taking the acid reflux medication unnecessarily13:14, 26 May 2026Omeprazole users told to watch out for 'red flag'Omeprazole is a common medication taken by millions to help ease the symptoms of acid reflux but recent headlines have highlighted the serious health issues associated with taking the tablets long-term or unnecessarily.‌A new study has taken this revelation even further, stating that up to two thirds of people with suspected acid reflux didn’t actually have the condition and may be taking acid reflux medication unnecessarily as a result. However, Dr Xand took to Morning Live on May 26th with an urgent warning for anyone taking the medication.‌He highlighted some shortcomings of the study, including the limited participant group, the gut testing company behind the research and the fact that it wasn’t published in a peer-reviewed journal. Meaning it hasn’t been scrutisined by other scientists just yet.‌For these reasons, Dr Xand warned people against acting on this study, adding: “All of which is to say the results do not seem to add up to what we actually know.“What worries me is if you stop these medications suddenly, if you look at that headline and go; ‘Oh, maybe I shouldn't be taking it then, I think I'll stop this one.’ You can get a rebound over production of acid, which can make symptoms worse, cause problems and generally cause difficulty.”‌Addressing some of the other side effects from long-term use as well, Dr Xand delivered his ultimate verdict on Omeprazole: “The number one thing I want people to remember, is these medications are extremely safe.“They are Blockbuster drugs, they are taken all over the world by billions of people. They have been studied very, very carefully…Recent trials looking at these medications and what they have found is a very, very small increased risk of gut infections. We're talking about a 0.4 of a percent increased risk.”The GP admitted that while this increased risk is “not nothing” for some people, the side effect should be outweighed by the positive impact the medication has like stopping you from developing dangerous bleeds.‌He also noted that many people take the medication for “a lot longer than they should” and advised that people get a regular review done with their doctor for any long-term medication they have been on.For people who may want to stop taking omeprazole, Dr Xand urged them to speak to their doctor before taking any action.Article continues belowIn the UK, omeprazole and other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can be prescribed by your GP. However, people can also self medicate as some types of PPIs are available at pharmacies without needing a prescription in the first place.The NHS warns: “Do not take omeprazole for longer than 2 weeks if you bought it without a prescription. See a GP if your symptoms get worse or do not get better.”Omeprazole can cause a range of side effects even with normal usage under doctor’s orders. These can include headaches, stomach pain, nausea, constipation, diarrhoea or vomiting.