Gastrointestinal - Rarpezol (Brand name: prevacid)

What is this medicine?

LANSOPRAZOLE prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, certain bacteria in the stomach, inflammation of the esophagus, and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. It can also be used to prevent and treat ulcers in patients taking medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
liver disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to lansoprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water. Do not crush or chew. This medicine works best if taken on an empty stomach 30 to 60 minutes before food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take more often than directed.

If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a tablespoon of any of the following foods: applesauce, Ensure brand pudding, cottage cheese, yoghurt, or strained pears. Do not crush the contents of the capsule into the food. Swallow the dose immediately after preparing it. Do not chew. Follow with a drink of water.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage:

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with the following:
atazanavir

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
ampicillin
delavirdine
digoxin
iron salts
itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, or other prescription medicines for fungus or yeast infections
sucralfate
theophylline
warfarin

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking this medicine?

It can take several days before your stomach pain gets better. Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better or if it gets worse.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible.
dark yellow or brown urine
fever or sore throat
unusual skin rash, blistering, or peeling
unusual bleeding or bruising
yellowing of the eyes or skin
vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea or constipation
headache
nausea
stomach pain or gas

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.