[doctom54]

shr7 that is an excellent analysis of a complex problem that we don't have all the data we need.
A couple of points.
Plavix (clopidogrel) is not a benign drug. Especially when used with aspirin there is an increased risk of GI bleed. In the elderly (which a number of these people are) only the PPIs have been shown to reduce this risk. I am concerned that the cardiologist (or their nurse practioner) will take a number of patients off their PPIs and there will be an increase in the number of GI bleeds.
Generally Plavix (clopidogrel) is not indicated for greater than one year unless the patient is unable to take aspirin. I have seen a number of patients the cardiologist have left them on it indefinately.
IF Protonix turns out to not have the same negative effect as omeprazole, will it be covered? Most of the insurance I deal with now only cover omperazole since it is OTC and in a generic form.

I agree with you. The question with ANY drug is, "Do I (or does the patient) need to be on this medication?"