Brand
name: Pantoprazole
Pronounced: PRO-ton-iks
Generic name: Pantoprazole sodium
Why is Pantoprazole prescribed?
Pantoprazole blocks the production of stomach acid. It is prescribed to
heal a condition called erosive esophagitis (a severe inflammation
of the passage to the stomach) brought on by a persistent backflow
of stomach acid (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Later, it may be
prescribed to maintain healing and prevent a relapse. It is also used
in the treatment of conditions marked by constant overproduction of
stomach acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.
Pantoprazole is a member of the "proton pump inhibitor" class
of acid blockers, which includes AcipHex, Nexium, Prilosec, and Prevacid.
Most important fact about Pantoprazole
Pantoprazole is highly effective. In most patients, stomach acid secretion
drops 85 to 95 percent after a single week of treatment.
How should you take Pantoprazole?
Pantoprazole may be taken with or without food. Do not chew, crush, or
split the delayed-release tablets. If you are taking antacids you may
continue to do so.
If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next
dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Never take two doses at once.
Storage instructions...
Store Pantoprazole at room temperature.
Pantoprazole side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Pantoprazole.
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, burping, diarrhea, gas, headache, insomnia, nausea, rash, vomiting
Why should Pantoprazole not be prescribed?
If Pantoprazole gives you an allergic reaction, you'll be unable to use
it.
Special warnings about Pantoprazole
Pantoprazole has been known to cause several extremely rare--but very
serious--side effects, including severe allergic reaction, severe swelling
of the face and throat, eye damage, dangerous skin reactions, and inflammation
of the pancreas. Seek emergency care immediately if you begin to have
difficulty breathing or swallowing, or begin to develop blisters, eruptions,
or peeling skin.
If you have a liver condition, make sure the doctor is aware of it.
A dosage adjustment may be needed for anyone with serious liver disease.
Pantoprazole has not been tested for safety or effectiveness in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Pantoprazole
If Pantoprazole is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Pantoprazole with the following:
Ampicillin (Omnipen)
Iron
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Although no harmful effects during pregnancy are known, there's no
definite proof of safety either. Pantoprazole is therefore recommended
during pregnancy only if clearly needed. If you are pregnant or plan
to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.
There is a possibility that Pantoprazole may appear in breast milk, causing
serious side effects in the nursing infant. If you have to take the
drug, you should not plan on breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for Pantoprazole
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. Although
little is known about Pantoprazole overdose in humans, in animal studies
it interferes with coordination and reduces activity. If you suspect
an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
