Drug Name: Prevacid
Brand Name: Prevacid (PREH-va-sid)
Generic Name: Lansoprazole
Uses: Prevacid is a medication used to treat stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer, esophagitis, heartburn and other symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Prevacid is also used to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers to patients taking anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, ibuprofen and Naprosyn. It is also used to treat certain diseases brought about by excessive production of acid such as in Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Prevacid works by blocking the production of acid in the stomach.
How to use: Prevacid is taken before meals. If you are using the capsule form, it can be swallowed directly with a full glass of water or the contents can be sprinkled in a spoon and mixed with apple sauce. The granules can also be mixed with 2 ounces of orange juice or tomato juice. If you are using a tablet, place the tablet on your tongue and let it dissolve for 1 minute. The dissolved tablet can be swallowed with or without water.
Side Effects: The side effects of Prevacid may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, dizziness or headache. Seek immediate medical attention if you experienced allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing and closing of your throat; or swelling of your lips, tongue or face.
Precautions: Prevacid should not be taken longer than what has been prescribed by your doctor. It should not also be used for long-term therapy on patients with duodenal ulcer or esophagitis. Inform your doctor if you have a liver disease before taking Prevacid since it may worsen your condition or the doctor may prescribe lower dosage. No study has really been made if Prevacid could affect pregnant women. However, it is still best to consult your doctor before taking this medication.
Drug Interaction: Fatal heartbeat irregularities may occur if Prevacid is taken along with Cisapride, Pimozide, Astemizole or Terfenadine. If Prevacid is taken with Ampicillin, Digoxin, Iron salts, Ketoconazole, Sucralfate, Theophylline and Warfarin, the effects of either Prevacid and these drugs could be increased, decreased or altered.
Overdose: Symptoms of overdose on Prevacid are unknown and may not cause any problem. However, if an overdose is suspected, call your doctor immediately.
Notes: You can take any food and beverages or do any activity while taking Prevacid unless there are specific restrictions from your doctor. You may continue taking antacids if you are on this medication. If you are also using Sucralfate, take Prevacid 30 minutes before taking Sucralfate.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as possible. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take double dose.
Important Note: Your doctor may schedule some tests to monitor your treatment and response to Prevacid.
Storage: Keep Prevacid in a tightly closed container and store at room temperature away from moisture.
Reference links on Prevacid:
Prevacid: drug interaction, side effects and other medical terms
Prevacid information from Drugs.com
