Medications and Drugs

Digestive Disease Myths Slideshow

GENERIC NAME: LANSOPRAZOLE DELAYED-RELEASE SUSPENSION - ORAL (lan-SO-pruh-zole)

BRAND NAME(S): Prevacid

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Lansoprazole works by blocking acid production in the stomach. This medication is known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It is used to treat acid-related stomach and throat (esophagus) problems (e.g., acid reflux or GERD, ulcers, erosive esophagitis, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). Lansoprazole may also be used to treat ulcers due to the long-term use of certain drugs for pain or swelling (NSAIDs-nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). In addition, this medication may be used in combination with antibiotics to treat certain types of ulcers caused by bacterial infection.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily, before a meal; or as directed by your doctor. Empty the packet and pour the contents into a container with 2 tablespoonfuls (1 oz or 30 ml) of water. Stir the mixture well and drink the entire suspension mixture immediately. Do not save it for later use. If any granules remain in the container after drinking the mixture, add a little more water, stir the mixture again, and drink it immediately. Do not use other liquids or foods to make this suspension mixture. Do not crush or chew the medication granules in the suspension mixture or prepare a supply in advance. Doing so may destroy the drug and/or increase side effects. Do not use the mixture in feeding tubes as the suspension may clog the tube. Antacids may be taken along with this medication, if needed. The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Continue to take this medication for the prescribed length of treatment even if you are feeling better. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: stomach pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: signs of vitamin B-12 deficiency with long-term (over 3 years) treatment (e.g., unusual weakness, sore tongue, numbness or tingling of the hands/feet). A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.