Gerd Treatment

I was originally prescribed 16 weeks Protonix (pantoprazole) 40 mg daily for the treatment of GERD (heartburn). Then I moved country and the general physician where I am now put me on Protonix as a long-term maintenance treatment, I had recurring symptoms. Ive been out now for 18 months and I am considering stopping the drug, but when I bring a concern for long-term safety. Has anyone been on Protonix / pantoprazole in more than one year (or years)? And what the doctor has to say about the safety of the treatment?