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
Q:
Can I take Pantoprazole during pregnancy?
A:
There is no adequate information from the use of Pantoprazole in pregnant women. If you are pregnant, you should use this medicine only if your doctor considers the benefit for you more significant than the potential risk for your unborn baby.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Pantoprazole while breastfeeding?
A:
Pantoprazole passes into human milk. If you are breastfeeding, ask your doctor before taking this medicine.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Pantoprazole?
A:
Pantoprazole has a negligible influence on the ability to drive. If you experience side effects like dizziness or disturbed vision, you should avoid driving.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Pantoprazole?
A:
No interaction between alcohol and Pantoprazole has been reported. However, alcohol is known to increase acidity and can make your acidity worse.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- 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?
A pump called the proton pump in the stomach is responsible for the secretion of stomach acids. Pantoprazole binds to this proton pump in stomach cells and blocks the acid secretion. Therefore, it is used in conditions where there is excessive acidity....
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
To be taken on an empty stomach. There are no known interactions with food or beverages. However, nicotine, caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate, and cola) and alcohol can stimulate stomach acid or delay ulcer healing and hinder the treatment process....
Dietary Restrictions of Pantoprazole
Not to be taken with food. Pantoprazole should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach.
Dosage of Pantoprazole
Missed a Dose
If you missed any dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a more dose to compensate for a missed one....
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Arpit Verma
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Pantoprazole used for?
A: Pantoprazole is commonly used to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome by reducing stomach acid production.
Q: How should I take Pantoprazole?
A: Pantoprazole dosage depends on the specific condition being treated, and it's essential to follow the prescribed regimen provided by your healthcare provider.
Q: Can Pantoprazole be used for heartburn?
A: Yes, Pantoprazole is used in treating heartburn associated with GERD by reducing stomach acid, providing relief, and promoting healing of the esophagus.
Q: What are the side effects of Pantoprazole?
A: Common side effects may include headache, nausea, and joint pain. Serious side effects are rare but may include blistering skin, irregular heartbeat, and severe diarrhea. Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Q: Is Pantoprazole safe during pregnancy?
A: Pregnant individuals should consult their doctor before using Pantoprazole. It is crucial to discuss potential risks and benefits to determine its appropriateness during pregnancy.
Q: Can I take Pantoprazole with other medications?
A: Certain medications may interact with Pantoprazole. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements, before starting Pantoprazole.
Q: How long can I take Pantoprazole?
A: The duration of Pantoprazole use depends on the condition being treated. Consult your doctor for guidance, and avoid exceeding the recommended duration without professional advice.
Q: Can Pantoprazole be taken with food?
A: Pantoprazole can be taken with or without food, depending on the specific instructions from your healthcare provider. Follow the prescribed guidelines for the best results.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Pantoprazole?
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Q: Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Pantoprazole?
A: Unless otherwise advised by your doctor, you can continue with your normal diet while taking Pantoprazole.
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The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.
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