Indications
- Pantoprazole is used to treat stomach and esophagus issues, including acid reflux.
- It reduces stomach acid production to alleviate symptoms like heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and cough.
- The medication aids in healing acid-induced damage to the stomach and esophagus.
- It also helps prevent ulcers and may have a role in preventing esophageal cancer.
- Pantoprazole belongs to the class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before starting pantoprazole and with each refill; consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.
- Take pantoprazole orally as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. The dosage and treatment duration depend on your medical condition and response.
- If using tablets, take them with or without food. Swallow whole; do not split, crush, or chew, as it may damage the drug.
- If using granules, take 30 minutes before a meal. Mix in applesauce or apple juice just before taking. Do not mix with other foods or liquids. Do not crush or chew the granules. If given through a tube, follow healthcare professional instructions.
- If needed, antacids can be taken with this medication. If also taking sucralfate, take pantoprazole at least 30 minutes before sucralfate.
- Use regularly at the same time each day for maximum benefit. Continue the prescribed treatment duration even if symptoms improve.
- Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens. The risk of side effects increases over time. Ask your doctor about the recommended duration of treatment.
Side effects
- Possible common side effects of pantoprazole include headache or diarrhea; inform your doctor or pharmacist if these persist or worsen.
- The medication is prescribed because the benefits are deemed greater than the risk of side effects; many users do not experience serious side effects.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you have serious side effects such as symptoms of low magnesium levels or signs of lupus.
- Pantoprazole may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition due to C. difficile bacteria; contact your doctor if you develop persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain/cramping, or blood/mucus in your stool.
- Avoid using anti-diarrhea or opioid products if you experience these symptoms, as they may worsen the condition.
- Proton pump inhibitors like pantoprazole may rarely lead to vitamin B-12 deficiency, especially with long-term daily use (3 years or longer); inform your doctor if you develop symptoms of B-12 deficiency.
- A very serious allergic reaction is rare but seek medical help if you notice symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing, or signs of kidney problems.
- This list may not include all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for any unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to pantoprazole or similar drugs (e.g., lansoprazole, omeprazole) and other allergies. Inactive ingredients may cause allergic reactions; consult your pharmacist for more information.
- Before using pantoprazole, disclose your medical history, especially if you have liver disease or lupus.
- Seek immediate medical help if you experience symptoms such as heartburn with lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness, or chest/jaw/arm/shoulder pain, especially with shortness of breath, unusual sweating, or unexplained weight loss.
- Before surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- Proton pump inhibitors like pantoprazole may increase the risk of bone fractures, especially with prolonged use, higher doses, and in older adults. Discuss preventive measures such as calcium and vitamin D supplements with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, including bone loss and fractures, as well as C. difficile infection.
- Use pantoprazole during pregnancy only when necessary; discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Pantoprazole passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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