Prevpac

Generic name: Amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and lansoprazole

What is Prevpac?

Prevpac is a prepackaged combination of drugs designed to treat duodenal ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria, the most common cause of ulcers. Prevpac is made up of 3 medications: amoxicillin and clarithromycin (Biaxin) are the antibiotic components and lansoprazole (Prevacid) is a proton-pump inhibitor that reduces the production of gastric acid.

What is the most important information I should know about Prevpac?

Take Prevpac exactly as prescribed and finish your entire course of therapy. If you stop too soon, the ulcer may not heal completely and your symptoms may return.

Serious and occasionally fatal allergic reactions have occurred in people taking antibiotics similar to those in Prevpac. Seek emergency medical treatment if you develop hives, swelling, itching, fainting, breathing difficulties, or chest pain. Also, if you develop severe diarrhea while taking Prevpac, call your doctor.

Who should not take Prevpac?

Prevpac therapy is not recommended if you have severe kidney disease. Use Prevpac with caution if you are over 65 years old.

Do not take Prevpac if you've ever had an allergic reaction to antibiotics such as amoxicillin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, or penicillin. Also, avoid Prevpac if you've had a reaction to any cephalosporin-type antibiotic.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Prevpac?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Prevpac. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease.

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.

Adults: The recommended dosage is 1 capsule of lansoprazole (Prevacid), 2 capsules of amoxicillin, and 1 tablet of clarithromycin (Biaxin) taken together twice a day (morning and evening) for 10 or 14 days.

How should I take Prevpac?

Each pack contains a full day's supply of medication, consisting of two 30-milligram (mg) capsules of lansoprazole (Prevacid), four 500-mg capsules of amoxicillin, and two 500-mg tablets of clarithromycin (Biaxin). Take half the supply in the morning and the remainder at night.

Prevpac can be taken with or without food. Swallow each pill whole; do not crush or chew.

What should I avoid while taking Prevpac?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are taking the medications contained in Prevpac, unless your doctor directs otherwise.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Prevpac?

If Prevpac 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 Prevpac with drugs used to treat HIV infection as well as the following: alfentanil, alprazolam, ampicillin, antiarrhythmics (such as quinidine and disopyramide), astemizole, blood thinners, bromocriptine, carbamazepine, cholesterol-lowering drugs (such as lovastatin and simvastatin), cilostazol, cisapride, cyclosporine, digoxin, disopyramide, ergotamine-based drugs for migraine, ketoconazole, hexobarbital, iron supplements, methylprednisolone, midazolam, probenecid, phenytoin, pimozide, rifabutin, sildenafil, sucralfate, tacrolimus, terfenadine, theophylline, triazolam, valproic acid

What are the possible side effects of Prevpac?

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: diarrhea, headache, taste disturbances

Can I receive Prevpac if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Prevpac 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 Prevpac?

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. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Prevpac?

Store Prevpac at room temperature, away from light and moisture.