Prevacid
Uses
This medicine is a
proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat ulcers,
gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), erosive esophagitis, or
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Lansoprazole may also be used to
treat ulcers due to long-term use of certain
pain/anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This medicine works by
blocking acid production in the stomach. It may be used in
combination with antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin,
clarithromycin) to treat certain types of ulcers. It may also
be used to treat other conditions as determined by your
doctor.
How To Use
Follow the
directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor.
TAKE THIS MEDICINE in the morning unless your doctor directs
otherwise. TAKE THIS MEDICINE before eating. SWALLOW WHOLE. Do
not break, crush, or chew before swallowing. IF YOU HAVE
TROUBLE SWALLOWING THE CAPSULE, the capsule may be opened and
the contents sprinkled into soft food (e.g., applesauce,
cottage cheese, yogurt), or emptied into a small amount (2 oz
or 60 ml) of juice and taken as directed. Rinse the container
with an additional small amount of juice and drink the
contents to make sure the entire dose is taken. DO NOT CHEW
the food/medication mixture or prepare a supply in advance.
Doing so may destroy the drug and/or increase side effects.
Potent acid-reducing medicines such as lansoprazole can
decrease the effectiveness of sucralfate, as well as other
drugs such as the antifungals ketoconazole and itraconazole.
If instructed to take any of these medicines while taking
lansoprazole, consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the
proper timing of each dose. For example, if you are instructed
to take sucralfate in addition to lansoprazole, it is best to
take the lansoprazole at least 30 minutes before your
sucralfate. Use this medicine regularly in order to get the
most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same
time each day. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between
59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from light and
moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. CONTINUE TAKING THIS
MEDICINE even if you feel better. Do not miss any doses. IF
YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible.
If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2
doses at once.
Side Effects
SIDE EFFECTS,
that may go away during treatment include constipation or
diarrhea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your
doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you
experience stomach pain. An allergic reaction to this medicine
is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it
occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash,
itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you
notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor,
nurse, or pharmacist.
Precautions
KEEP ALL DOCTOR
AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are using this medicine.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription
or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. FOR
WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your
doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during
pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS DRUG IS EXCRETED in breast
milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.
Drug Interactions
Drug
interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a
medicine from doing its job. Use our drug interaction checker
to find out if your medicines interact with each other.
Notes
If you are taking this
medicine for gastric ulcers or reflux disease, your symptoms
should improve within 4 to 8 weeks. If your symptoms do not
improve or if they become worse, contact your doctor. DO NOT
SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not
prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health
conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children
and pets. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF
TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
Prevacid