Contrary to the belief that popular heartburn drugs such as Nexium and Prilosec are harmless, researchers have discovered that their long-term use might, in fact, increase the risk of fractures in people over 50.

A team of researchers in Britain conducted a large study that led to the conclusion that drugs commonly prescribed for heartburn could raise the risk of a hip fracture in an elderly population that is particularly vulnerable to this potentially life-threatening injury.

One hypothesis is that the drugs interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium, resulting in weaker bones.

Heartburn itself can be serious. Some people who suffer from chronic heartburn develop esophageal ulcers and, rarely, esophageal cancer.

Doctors need to exercise caution in advising patients regarding use of the drugs, the researchers said.