Which drug is an example of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI)?

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a class of medications that work by blocking the hydrogen-potassium ATPase enzyme system of the gastric parietal cells. This action effectively reduces the production of gastric acid, which can be beneficial in treating conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Omeprazole is a well-known example of a proton pump inhibitor. It specifically inhibits the proton pump in the stomach lining, leading to decreased acidity and providing relief from acid-related symptoms and promoting healing of the esophagus and stomach.

Lansoprazole is another drug in the same class as omeprazole, but the question asks specifically for an example, and omeprazole is often the more recognized PPI, making it a common reference point. Ranitidine is an H2 receptor antagonist, which works differently by reducing acid production through a different mechanism, while aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that does not affect gastric acid secretion directly.