Pantoprazole
Information about Pantoprazole
Pantoprazole uses
Pantoprazole is used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (acid reflux) and peptic ulcer disease.
How pantoprazole works
Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach which in turn relieves acid-related indigestion and heartburn.
Common side effects of pantoprazole
Diarrhea, Flatulence, Headache, Nausea, Stomach pain, Vomiting, Dizziness
Content Details
Last updated on:
16 Jan 2020 | 04:28 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Pantoprazole
- Pantoprazole should be taken one hour before the meal, preferably in the morning.
- It is a well-tolerated medicine and provides relief for a long time.
- Some healthy tips to prevent acidity from happening:
- Avoid excessive intake of carbonated beverages/soft drinks, citrus juices, fried food, caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
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Avoid eating late at night or before bedtime.
- Inform your doctor if you get watery diarrhea, fever or stomach pain that does not go away.
- Inform your doctor if you do not feel better after taking it for 14 days as you may be suffering from some other problem that needs attention.
- Long-term use of Pantoprazole can cause weak bones and a deficiency of minerals such as magnesium. Take adequate dietary intake of calcium and magnesium or their supplements as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking medication without talking to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions for Pantoprazole
Pantoprazole
Q. What is Pantoprazole used for?
Pantoprazole is used for the treatment of stomach and intestinal ulcers (gastric and duodenal ulcers), reflux esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Pantoprazole prevents acidity associated with use of painkillers and stress ulcers in critically ill people. 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.
Q. How long does it take for Pantoprazole to work?
You should start to feel better within 2 to 3 days. It may take up to 4 weeks for Pantoprazole to work properly so you may still have some symptoms during this time.
Q. Is Pantoprazole safe?
Yes, Pantoprazole is relatively safe. Most of the people who take Pantoprazole do not get a side effect. It is advised to be taken as directed by the doctor for maximum benefits.
Q. Can I take Pantoprazole for a long term?
Pantoprazole is usually prescribed for short term use only. However, if need arises, such as for treating peptic ulcer disease, ZE syndrome etc, Pantoprazole 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 Pantoprazole as advised by your doctor and under their supervision.
Q. What are the long term side effects of Pantoprazole?
If Pantoprazole 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.
Q. What is the best time to take Pantoprazole?
Usually, Pantoprazole is taken once a day, first thing in the morning. If you take Pantoprazole 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.
Q. Is a single dose of Pantoprazole sufficient?
No, a single dose may not be sufficient but you may get relief in a few doses only. Pantoprazole is usually needed only for a short term or upto 2 weeks for heartburn, indigestion, acid reflux. However, if need arises, such as for treating peptic ulcer disease, ZE syndrome etc, Pantoprazole may be prescribed for a long term duration as well. Please consult your doctor if you do not feel better even after taking Pantoprazole regularly for 2 weeks as prescribed.
Q. Can I stop taking Pantoprazole if I feel better?
If you have been taking Pantoprazole 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 Pantoprazole.
Q. Does Pantoprazole cause weight gain?
Although rare but long-term treatment with Pantoprazole 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.
Q. Can I take alcohol with Pantoprazole?
No, alcohol intake is not advised with Pantoprazole. Alcohol itself does not affect the working of Pantoprazole, but it can increase the acid production. This may further cause worsening of your symptoms.
Q. Can I take antacids along with Pantoprazole?
Yes, you can take antacids along with Pantoprazole. Take it 2 hours before or after you take Pantoprazole.
Q. What dietary changes should I make to get relief from acidity?
Pantoprazole is best taken 1 hour before a meal. You should avoid spicy and fatty foods while taking this medicine. You must refrain from caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee and cola. Alcohol intake should also be avoided as it may worsen your symptoms.
Q. Are painkillers safe to take along with Pantoprazole?
Yes, it is safe to take painkillers along with Pantoprazole. Pantoprazole prevents acidity and stomach ulcers associated with the intake of painkillers. Pantoprazole is taken 1 hour before a meal. On the other hand, painkillers must be taken with, or after a meal to avoid stomach upset.