Pantoprazole also allows the esophagus to heal and prevent further damage to the esophagus in adults suffering from GERD. This medication effectively treats conditions in adults where the stomach produces too much acid, like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
It belongs to a class of drugs called proton-pump inhibitors, and Pantoprazole's brand name is Protonix. Pantoprazole should be taken as directed by a doctor to get relief from your medical conditions quickly.
Pantoprazole is used for:
Pantoprazole works in your body, blocking the actions of an enzyme called gastric proton pump. This aids in reducing stomach acid.
This proton pump is present in cells of the stomach wall that release gastric acid secretion and damage tissues in the stomach & food pipe.
Pantoprazole prevents stomach acid release and relieves symptoms of esophagitis, GERD, and heartburn.
Before you start treatment with Pantoprazole, carefully read the patient information leaflet.
If there is any doubt or confusion about this drug or its dosage, then discuss it with the doctor once.
Take one tablet of Pantoprazole by mouth as directed by a doctor, mainly once daily.
Based on your medical condition and response to treatment, the doctor will determine the dosage and length of treatment.
When taking tablets, you can take them with or without food as prescribed by a doctor.
Swallow the tablet as a whole without splitting, crushing, or chewing this medicine. Doing so can reduce effectiveness.
When a doctor recommends Pantoprazole granules, take your dose almost 30 minutes before a meal.
Take it by mouth by simply opening the packet and mixing the granules in applesauce or apple juice. Never mix other foods.
Granules must not be crushed or chewed. Sprinkle granules on one teaspoon of applesauce and swallow it immediately.
To ensure you have taken the complete dose, rinse the cup with apple juice, mix the remaining granules, and swallow it.
Never prepare a mixture of this medication ahead of time to use it later.
If required, the doctor might recommend you take antacids along with Pantoprazole.
Make sure you take Pantoprazole for almost 30 minutes before you take sucralfate.
Take a missed dose immediately when you remember it. If it’s time for the next dose, skip the missed dosage.
It is crucial for you to take all doses on time and never double doses to make up missed doses.
In case there is an overdose of Pantoprazole, then it can lead to conditions like breathing problems or passing out.
You might also experience side effects of overdose, such as stomach aches, rashes, and watery stool.
In case of an overdose, you need to seek emergency medical help and stop Pantoprazole.
Let your doctor know if you are allergic to Pantoprazole or other similar medications.
Inactive ingredients present in Pantoprazole can also cause harmful reactions in your body.
Pantoprazole might increase risk of bone fractures when taken in higher doses for a long time.
Sometimes, older adults experience this problem due to Pantoprazole. Vitamin D can be helpful in preventing this damage.
Before starting treatment with Pantoprazole, inform doctor about your medical history, especially of: lupus and liver disorder.
During pregnancy, Pantoprazole must be used only when required clearly, discuss risks and benefits with doctor once.
Consult a doctor before breast-feeding as Pantoprazole passes into breast milk.
Like other medicines, Pantoprazole can also cause some mild or serious side effects.
Side effects of Pantoprazole usually depend upon three factors including:
Some mild side effects of Pantoprazole oral tablet include:
Serious side effects of Pantoprazole oral tablet are:
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions can alter how your medicine works or increase risk of experiencing serious side effects.
It is recommended to inform doctor beforehand about all other medicines you use like prescription & non-prescription drugs.
During your treatment with Pantoprazole, you must avoid following medications:
Storage
Doctors recommend storing Pantoprazole tablets at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
You can start feeling better within 2 to 3 days of Pantoprazole treatment.
Though Pantoprazole can also take 4 weeks to work properly and treat your condition.
Yes, pantoprazole is safe to take under a doctor’s supervision. Most people do not experience any side effects.
For maximum benefits, you must take this medicine exactly in same way as directed by your doctor.
Pantoprazole is generally prescribed for treating short-term medical conditions only.
If need arises, like for treating peptic ulcer disease and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome then Pantoprazole can be prescribed for a long duration.
In case, you are taking this medicine for a long time then stopping it suddenly might increase acid production.
This will further worsen your symptoms. Discuss with your doctor about dosage changes and then stop treatment with Pantoprazole.
