Exacerbation of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms after discontinuation of proton pump inhibitors is not associated with increased esophageal acid exposure.

Background: Discontinuation of long-term proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) on patients with reflux symptoms can be challenging, as symptoms often exacerbate after stopping. The mechanism remains unknown. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of stopping long-term PPIs on patients with heartburn, and its association with esophageal acid exposure.