P137 A multinational survey to identify the clinicians perspectives concerning proton pump inhibitors in patients with systemic sclerosis

Abstract Background/Aims Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used in Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, there is scarce evidence to support their use while long-term safety has been questioned. The aim of our study was to identify healthcare providers’ perspectives and experience regarding PPIs therapy in SSc patients. Methods An online survey in English language targeting clinicians involved in the care of SSc patients, was developed and distributed through social media and international physician networks. The survey was launched on 27th November 2022 and kept open for three weeks. Results Responses from 227 clinicians from 36 countries were recorded: most of them (86%) were between 30-70 years and gender was equally represented (F: 52%; M: 48%). The majority ‘agreed’ (41%) or ‘strongly agreed’ (45%) that GERD is a major cause of morbidity in SSc. Lifestyle modifications and non-pharmacological approaches alone were seldom (16%) considered effective. Only half of respondents ‘agreed’ (43%) or ‘strongly agreed’ (11%) there is solid evidence supporting PPIs efficacy in SSc. A range of PPIs was prescribed by clinicians, most frequently pantoprazole (74%), esomeprazole (72%), omeprazole (72%), and lansoprazole (68%). The most common reasons for PPIs prescription (Table 1) were symptomatic GERD unresponsive to lifestyle modification (95%), objective evidence of GERD (82%), and hoarseness or respiratory symptoms (71%). Multiple concerns were raised about PPI long-term safety. The three highest (mean, 10 being very concerned) reasons were: small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (5.5), osteoporosis (5.4), and drug interactions (5.2). There were significant differences in attitudes towards surgery for refractory GERD: ‘strongly disagreed’ (14%), ‘disagreed’ (26%) ‘neutral’ (52%), ‘agreed’ (13%), ‘strongly agreed’ (3%). Furthermore, half of respondents had concerns about potential complications (i.e., worsening of dysphagia): ‘disagreed’ (26%) or ‘strongly disagreed’ (6%), ‘neutral (52%), ‘agreed’ (13%), ‘strongly agreed’ (3%). Conclusion Our survey confirms that PPIs are frequently prescribed for GERD in SSc patients, despite the absence of randomized clinical trials demonstrating their efficacy and safety. Clinicians are concerned about side effects, especially regarding long-term use. There is significant heterogeneity in attitudes towards surgery for refractory GERD. Future research and practical treatment recommendation are urgently needed. Disclosure G. Bandini: None. A. Alunno: None. F. Oliveira Pinheiro: None. C. Campochiaro: None. I. Galetti: None. P. Matucci Cerinic: None. B. Ruaro: None. A. Moggi Pignone: None. L. Dagna: None. M. Matucci Cerinic: None. Z. McMahan: None. M. Hughes: None.