Background: Discrepancies in prescribing proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) appears to revolve around physician attitudes and self-justified perceptions. This survey was conducted to evaluate the knowledge and perceptions of PPI-related adverse events among physicians, and subsequent change in behaviour associated with the use of PPIs.

Methods: This was a prospective, questionnaire-based, multicentric survey with data collected from physicians across India who volunteered to participate in periodic surveys. 

Results: The survey was completed by a total of 465 physicians. A significant proportion of physicians were unaware of the specific adverse effects with PPI use. Most were slightly concerned about adverse effects when prescribing PPIs; nearly 48% physicians somewhat changed their prescribing practices for PPIs on account of these adverse effects. More than half (55%) survey responders perceived PPIs to be moderately effective at reducing the risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, whereas 26% believed it was slightly effective, 17% as very effective, while 2% felt it was not effective at all.

Conclusion: Healthcare practitioners could benefit from explicit guidance about scenarios in which patients can safely discontinue the use of PPIs, and regarding strategies for de-escalation that are most likely to succeed. Forthcoming interventions must emphasise on ascertaining appropriate prescription of PPIs tailored to individual benefits and risks.