Objective: To investigate the current status and problems of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in pediatrics in China

so as to provide reference for the rational use of PPIs in children. Methods: The questionnaire on clinical use of PPIs in pediatrics was compiled according to the drug instructions

clinical guidelines/ consensus

and literature at home and abroad. The questionnaire was distributed to 24 hospitals in 20 provinces and cities of 6 administrative regions in China

and the survey results were statistically analyzed. Results: A total of 185 valid questionnaires were collected. Among the 24 hospitals

21 used omeprazole (injection form)

18 used omeprazole (oral dosage form)

and 8 used esomeprazole (oral dosage form). Peptic ulcer

Helicobacter pylori infection

gastroesophageal reflux disease and reflux esophagitis were the common diseases treated with PPIs. A total of 156 questionnaires (84郾32%) were found to have off鄄label drug use. There were 96 questionnaires (51郾89%) with off鄄label recommended range of diagnosis and treatment guidelines/ consensus. Totally 159 questionnaires (85郾95%) had drug combination with antibiotics

gastric mucosal protective agents

H2 receptor antagonists and probiotics. There were 136 questionnaires (73郾51%) with adverse drug reactions to PPIs. Conclusion: PPIs used in children in China belongs to off鄄label drug use

and the incidence of off鄄label drug use in pediatrics and off鄄label dose recommended by the diagnosis and treatment guidelines/ consensus is relatively high. Therefore

clinicians爷prescription behavior should be standardized to promote clinical rational drug use. Meanwhile

pharmaceutical enterprises should be encouraged to improve the drug information for children in the drug instructions to ensure the safety and effectiveness of drug use.