Stopping Stomach Medicine (PPI) and Laxatives

With PPIs, gradual tapering generally allows rebound acid hypersecretion to settle over several weeks, and for laxatives, it can take a few weeks to two or three months for the bowel's rhythm to return. If the medication is stopped abruptly during this period, the rebound can be strong and hard to tolerate, but tapering step by step in consultation with your prescribing doctor while also managing diet, hydration, and activity makes the transition much smoother. Recovery speed varies depending on duration of use, dosage, and lifestyle habits.

Our Korean Medicine Clinic's Perspective

Dongjedang proceeds in sequence — from establishing the basic balance of acid regulation and bowel motility, to clearing accumulated waste and rebuilding stomach function. While you gradually taper the medication, herbal medicine buffers the rough patches of rebound, so in the first stage you typically notice "less burning and better bowel movements" before moving into a more stable phase, with the pace adjusted accordingly.