Prevacid
Generic Name: Lansoprazole
What is Prevacid?
Prevacid is a medicine that blocks the production of stomach acid. It belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Prevacid is used in adults for the short-term treatment of stomach and duodenal ulcers (ulcer in the upper intestine), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus [tube that connects your mouth and stomach] due to excess acid).Prevacid is also used to prevent a relapse of duodenal ulcer or esophagitis; to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers in people on continuous therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); for long-term treatment of certain conditions marked by excessive acid production, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome; and as part of a combination treatment to eliminate the bacteria that often causes ulcers (known as H. pylori).
In addition, Prevacid is used for the short-term treatment of GERD and erosive esophagitis in children and adolescents 1-17 years old.
What is the most important information I should know about Prevacid?
Taking Prevacid may mask the symptoms of serious stomach problems. Symptom relief does not rule out the existence of other serious conditions, including cancer.If you have a condition known as phenylketonuria (an inability to process phenylalanine, a protein in your body), be aware that Prevacid SoluTab orally disintegrating tablets contain phenylalanine.
Who should not take Prevacid?
Do not take Prevacid if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Prevacid?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Prevacid. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver disease or phenylketonuria. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Erosive Esophagitis
Adults: The usual dose is 30 milligrams (mg) once a day for up to 8 weeks. Depending on your response, the doctor may suggest another 8 weeks of treatment. To prevent a relapse, the doctor may suggest taking 15 mg once a day.
Adolescents 12-17 years: The usual dose is 30 mg once a day for up to 8 weeks.
Children 1 -11 years: Depending on your child's weight, the usual dose is 15 mg or 30 mg once a day for up to 12 weeks. If your child's symptoms do not improve after 2 or more weeks, the doctor may increase the dose up to a maximum of 30 mg twice a day.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Adults: The usual dose is 15 mg once a day for up to 8 weeks.
Adolescents 12-17 years: The usual dose is 15 mg once a day for up to 8 weeks.
Children 1-11 years: Depending on your child's weight, the usual dose is 15 mg or 30 mg once a day for up to 12 weeks. If your child's symptoms do not improve after 2 or more weeks, the doctor may increase the dose up to a maximum of 30 mg twice a day.
Prevention of Duodenal Ulcer Due to H. pylori Infection
Adults: This treatment involves taking Prevacid along with amoxicillin alone or amoxicillin and clarithromycin. When combined with amoxicillin only, the usual dosage is 30 mg of Prevacid and 1,000 mg of amoxicillin three times a day for 14 days. If all three drugs are used, the usual dosage is 30 mg of Prevacid, 1,000 mg of amoxicillin, and 500 mg of clarithromycin twice a day for 10-14 days.
Prevention/Treatment of Duodenal Ulcer
Adults: The usual dose is 15 mg once a day for 4 weeks. Your doctor may suggest continuing treatment to prevent a relapse.
Prevention/Treatment of Stomach Ulcer Due to NSAIDs
Adults: The usual dose for treating active symptoms is 30 mg once a day for up to 8 weeks. The usual dose to help prevent a recurrence is 15 mg once a day for up to 12 weeks.
Short-Term Treatment of Stomach Ulcer
Adults: The usual dose is 30 mg once a day for up to 8 weeks.
Treatment of Excess Stomach Acid (such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome)
Adults: The usual dose is 60 mg once a day. However, treatment varies depending on the particular condition. Prevacid can be used for long-term treatment if needed. Dosages of 120 mg or more a day should be divided into smaller doses.
How should I take Prevacid?
Prevacid should be taken before meals. If you are taking the delayed-release capsules and have trouble swallowing, you can sprinkle the contents onto a tablespoon of applesauce; swallow immediately without chewing or crushing the granules. You may also mix the granules with 2 ounces of orange juice or tomato juice. (Rinse the glass with an additional 4 ounces of juice to make sure you get the entire dose.)If you are taking the orally disintegrating Prevacid SoluTabs, place each tablet on the tongue. The dissolved particles may be swallowed with or without water. The SoluTabs should not be chewed or swallowed whole. If you or your child has trouble swallowing the SoluTabs, you may dissolve the tablet in water and administer the solution with an oral syringe or through a nasogastric tube (ask your doctor for specific instructions).
What should I avoid while taking Prevacid?
If you also take sucralfate, avoid taking it at the same time you take Prevacid. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking Prevacid before you take sucralfate.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Prevacid?
If Prevacid 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 Prevacid with the following: ampicillin, digoxin, iron salts, ketoconazole, sucralfate, theophylline, and warfarin.What are the possible side effects of Prevacid?
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 this drug.Side effects may include: abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness or headache (more common in children), nausea
Can I receive Prevacid if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Prevacid during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Prevacid?
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 dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Prevacid?
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Keep away from moisture.
