Pantoprazole
Molecule Description
Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used to treat conditions such as gastro
esophageal reflux disease (GERD) in adults and children over 5 years old, allowing the esophagus to heal and preventing further damage. It is also used in managing conditions where the stomach produces excessive acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Pantoprazole works by decreasing stomach acid production through its proton pump inhibition. Administered as delayed-release tablets or granules, Pantoprazole should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider. For GERD treatment, it is usually taken once a day, while conditions with excessive stomach acid may require twice-daily dosing. Pantoprazole can be taken with or without food, and granules are typically taken 30 minutes before a meal, mixed with applesauce or apple juice. Pantoprazole may cause side effects like headache, nausea, and joint pain. Prolonged use may increase the risk of certain complications, and patients are advised not to exceed the recommended duration without consulting their healthcare provider. Special precautions include discussing allergies, existing medical conditions, and other medications with a healthcare provider before starting Pantoprazole. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should inform their doctors, and those over 70 years of age should be cautious about prolonged use. Pantoprazole may interact with certain medications, and these should be discussed with healthcare providers. Patients are urged to take Pantoprazole as directed, not altering the dosage or frequency without consulting their doctor. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it's close to the next scheduled dose.
Uses of Pantoprazole
- Stomach ulcer
- Ulcer in the first part of intestine
- A peculiar infection of the stomach called Helicobacter Pylori infection. Here it is used along with antibiotics
- Treating symptoms like heartburn, acid regurgitation associated to gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
- It can be used alone or with other medicines that decrease or neutralize acid secretion
Contraindications of Pantoprazole
When should one not use Pantoprazole
- If you have any allergic reaction to Pantoprazole or other proton pump inhibitors
- If you are on Rilpivirine or Atazanavir or other anti-HIV medications
- If you are on Methotrexate
- You have/ are suspected of having stomach cancer. There are studies that link Pantoprazole to stomach cancer. It is important to share if you have any personal or family history of stomach cancer
Side effects of Pantoprazole
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Headache
- Constipation or diarrhea along with flatulence
- Dry mouth
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
- Skin rash
- Sore throat
- Serious skin conditions: blistering of the skin, erosion of nose, mouth, lips, genitals (Steven Johnson syndrome) and sensitivity to light
- Increased risk of infections in the long term use
- Fracture of the hip, wrist or spine
- Skin turning yellow (severe damage to liver cells, jaundice)
- Altered sense of taste
- Disturbances in vision such as blurred vision
- Decreased sodium and magnesium levels in blood
Precautions and Warnings of Pantoprazole
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
- If you have serious liver issues. In case of an increase of liver enzymes, the treatment should be stopped
- If you have low levels of vitamin B12 (like Cobalamin). Pantoprazole is known to cause reduced absorption of vitamin B12 in the long term
- If on exposure to sun you get rashes on your skin, stop your treatment with Pantoprazole and inform your doctor as soon as you can
- It may cause Clostridium difficle associated diarrhea and malabsorption if taken for a long term. Therefore, it should be taken only on doctor’s advice
Mode of Action of Pantoprazole
How Does It Work?
Interactions of Pantoprazole
Interactions with other medicines
- Medicines such as Itraconazole, Ketoconazole (used to treat fungal infections)
- Medicines such as Erlotinib, Methotrexate (used for certain types of cancer)
- Medicines given in HIV/ AIDS patients (such as Nelfinavir, Tenofovir, Atazanavir, Rilpivirine, etc.)
- Warfarin and Phenprocoumon, these affect the thickening or thinning of the blood
Interactions with food items
Dietary Restrictions of Pantoprazole
Dosage of Pantoprazole
Missed a Dose
Content Details
Dr. Arpit Verma
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Pantoprazole used for?
Q: How should I take Pantoprazole?
Q: Can Pantoprazole be used for heartburn?
Q: What are the side effects of Pantoprazole?
Q: Is Pantoprazole safe during pregnancy?
Q: Can I take Pantoprazole with other medications?
Q: How long can I take Pantoprazole?
Q: Can Pantoprazole be taken with food?
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Pantoprazole?
Q: Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Pantoprazole?
References
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