Ilaprazole is used for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease, reflux esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Ilaprazole prevents acidity associated with use of painkillers. It is also used to treat a disease associated with excessive acid production in the stomach known as Zollinger Ellison syndrome (ZES). It works by reducing the amount of acid made by your stomach and thus relieves your symptoms.

Yes, Ilaprazole is relatively safe. Most of the people who take Ilaprazole do not get a side effect. It is advised to be taken as directed by the doctor for maximum benefit.

Ilaprazole is usually prescribed for short term use only. However, if need arises, such as for treating peptic ulcer disease, ZE syndrome etc, Ilaprazole may be prescribed for a long term duration as well. Long term use may carry an increased risk for side effects and must be discussed with the doctor. Please use Ilaprazole as advised by your doctor and under their supervision.

If Ilaprazole is used for more than 3 months, certain long term side effects may be seen. The most important of these is low magnesium levels in your blood which may make you feel tired, confused, dizzy, shaky or dizzy. You may also have muscle twitches or irregular heartbeat. If the use is further prolonged for more than a year, you may have an increased risk of bone fractures, stomach infections and vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency can make you anemic, as a result of which you may feel more tired, weak, or pale. Additionally you may have palpitations, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, indigestion, loss of appetite, flatulence (gas) or nerve problems such as numbness, tingling and problem in walking.

Usually, Ilaprazole is taken once a day, first thing in the morning. If you take Ilaprazole twice a day, take 1 dose in the morning and 1 dose in the evening. The tablets should be swallowed whole (remember not be chewed or crushed) and taken at least 1 hour before a meal with some water.

If you have been taking Ilaprazole for a long time. Stopping it abruptly may lead to increased acid production, thereby worsening your symptoms. Therefore, you must discuss any dose changes or if you wish to come off Ilaprazole.

Although rare but long-term treatment with Ilaprazole may cause weight gain. The reason could be the relief from reflux symptoms which could make you eat more. Consult your doctor for any weight-related concern.

No, alcohol intake is not advised with Ilaprazole. Alcohol itself does not affect the working of Ilaprazole, but it can increase the acid production. This may further cause worsening of your symptoms.