Prevacid NapraPAC

Generic name: Lansoprazole and naproxen

What is Prevacid NapraPAC?

Prevacid NapraPAC is prescribed to relieve arthritis symptoms in people who also have a history of stomach ulcers, pain caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis (spinal arthritis).

Prevacid NapraPAC is a combination package containing 2 drugs: lansoprazole (Prevacid) and naproxen (Naprosyn). Prevacid is used to prevent or treat stomach ulcers, among other conditions. Naprosyn is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat various types of pain.

What is the most important information I should know about Prevacid NapraPAC?

Combining Prevacid NapraPAC with other prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers that contain naproxen, aspirin or other NSAIDs, or Prevacid and other acid-reducing medications, may increase your risk of serious side effects. Do not take any other medicines—especially those for the common cold, pain, or heartburn—without first talking to your doctor.

The symptom relief provided by Prevacid NapraPAC may mask certain medical conditions. By reducing fever and inflammation, Naprosyn may hide an underlying infection or inflammatory condition. By providing relief from stomach pain, Prevacid may hide an underlying stomach cancer. Naprosyn may cause vision problems. Tell your doctor if you experience any change in your vision while taking Prevacid NapraPAC.

NSAID medicines may increase the chance of a heart attack or stroke, which can lead to death. This risk increases with longer use of NSAIDs and in people who have heart disease. NSAIDs should never be used right before or after a heart surgery called a "coronary artery bypass graft" (CABG).

When taking NSAIDs such as Naprosyn, serious ulcers and internal bleeding can occur without warning. Ask your doctor about the warning signs of stomach problems and notify your doctor immediately if you have any stomach or abdominal pain.

Who should not take Prevacid NapraPAC?

You should not use Prevacid NapraPAC if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Prevacid, Naprosyn, or any other medication containing naproxen. If aspirin or other NSAIDs have ever given you asthma, nasal inflammation, or nasal polyps, you should not take Prevacid NapraPAC.

Prevacid NapraPAC should never be used right before or after a heart surgery called a "coronary artery bypass graft" (CABG).

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Prevacid NapraPAC .Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you liver or kidney disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, a history of stroke, heart attack, congestive heart failure, a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia, or a history of allergic reaction to aspirin, especially aspirin triad syndrome.

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 daily dose is one 15-milligram (mg) Prevacid capsule and 2 Naprosyn tablets (either 375 or 500 mg). The maximum daily dose of Naprosyn is 1000 mg.

The dose of Naprosyn may need to be reduced in people who are elderly or have liver or kidney problems.

Prevacid NapraPAC has not been approved for use in children.

How should I take Prevacid NapraPAC?

Prevacid NapraPAC contains 4 blister cards. Each blister card contains enough medication for 1 week (7 Prevacid capsules and 14 Naprosyn tablets). Take 1 Prevacid capsule and 1 Naprosyn tablet in the morning, before eating, with a glass of water. Take a second Naprosyn tablet in the evening with a glass of water.

Swallow the Prevacid capsule whole. Do not chew or crush it.

If you take sucralfate, Prevacid should be taken 30 minutes before sucralfate.

What should I avoid while taking Prevacid NapraPAC?

Naprosyn may cause you to become drowsy or less alert. Avoid driving, operating dangerous machinery, or participating in any hazardous activity until you know how Prevacid NapraPAC affects you.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Prevacid NapraPAC?

If Prevacid NapraPAC 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 NapraPAC with the following: ACE-inhibitors, acid-reducing drugs, ampicillin, anticonvulsants (such as fosphenytoin, phenytoin, and mephenytoin), aspirin and other NSAIDs, beta-blockers, blood thinners, digoxin, furosemide, hydantoin, lithium, iron supplements, ketoconazole, probenecid, sucralfate, sulfonamides and other sulfa drugs, sulfonylureas, theophylline, ulcer medications

What are the possible side effects of Prevacid NapraPAC?

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, bruising, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, heartburn, headache, itching, nausea, ringing in the ear, skin eruptions, shortness of breath, swelling due to fluid retention, itching

Can I receive Prevacid NapraPAC if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should not use Prevacid NapraPAC during the last 3 months of pregnancy. The risk during the first 6 months has not been fully determined. Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Prevacid NapraPAC is not recommended for use in breastfeeding mothers. If Prevacid NapraPAC is essential to your health, the doctor may have you stop breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Prevacid NapraPAC?

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 once.

How should I store Prevacid NapraPAC?

Store at room temperature.