What is Pantoprazole used for?
Pantoprazole is prescribed for the treatment of heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease, ulcers, Zollinger–Ellison syndrome, erosive esophagitis, and so on. This drug is a proton pump inhibitor that works by blocking stomach acid production. It is also prescribed in combination with antibiotics such as clarithromycin or amoxicillin. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What are the side effects of Pantoprazole?
Like other medicines, Pantoprazole can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Pantoprazole are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.
It is pertinent to note that side effects of Pantoprazole cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Pantoprazole develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Pantoprazole can cause side effects such as constipation, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, headache, dry mouth, joint pain, swollen ankles, liver disorders, depression, hallucinations, and confusion. Some of the serious side effects of Pantoprazole include fever, skin rash, blistering of the skin, abnormal bleeding, and unusual weakness or tiredness. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Pantoprazole.
What is the recommended dosage of Pantoprazole?
The dosage of Pantoprazole prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.
What if you miss a dose of Pantoprazole?
If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Pantoprazole medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, instead skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.
What if you overdose on Pantoprazole?
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Some of the overdose symptoms of Pantoprazole are hypoactivity, ataxia, absence of ear reflex, and tremor.
What other drugs could interact with Pantoprazole?
- Ampicillin
- Atazanavir
- Dasatinib
- Delavirdine
- Diazepam
- Enoxacin
- Iron salts
- Itraconazole
- Ketoconazole
- Warfarin
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Pantoprazole.
Usually, drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about the intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Pantoprazole, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals, and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.
Pantoprazole can interact with certain antifungal medicines, anticoagulant medicines, and epileptic and heart drugs.
Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Pantoprazole?
Is it possible for me to take Pantoprazole with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Pantoprazole?
What are the possible drug interactions of Pantoprazole?
How will Pantoprazole work in my body?
How should Pantoprazole be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Pantoprazole drug interactions and side effects?
Note
The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Pantoprazole is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug. Keep this drug out of the reach of children. It is not recommended for children under 12 years. Before taking Pantoprazole, inform your doctor if you have decreased kidney or liver function and vitamin B12 deficiency. Also, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.