Why is this medication prescribed?

Dexilant is a medication primarily prescribed to treat conditions related to excessive stomach acid production, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and erosive esophagitis. It belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which work by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

It is typically used to relieve symptoms such as heartburn, acid regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. Dexilant may also help in healing and preventing damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid.

How should this medicine be used?

Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) is typically taken orally once daily, with or without food. The recommended dosage and duration of treatment will vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. Here are some general guidelines on how Dexilant should be used:

• Follow the Prescription: Take Dexilant exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first.
• Oral Administration: Swallow the Dexilant capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or split the capsule, as this may affect its delayed-release formulation.
• Timing: It’s typically taken once daily, preferably at the same time each day, to maintain consistent levels of the medication in your system.
• With or Without Food: Dexilant can be taken with or without food. However, if you’re instructed to take it with food, follow your healthcare provider’s advice.
• Avoid Alcohol and Certain Foods: It’s advisable to avoid consuming alcohol and certain foods that can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms while taking Dexilant.
• Duration of Treatment: Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better before the treatment period is over. Stopping the medication prematurely may allow your symptoms to return.
• Monitor for Side Effects: While Dexilant is generally well-tolerated, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Be vigilant for any adverse reactions and report them to your healthcare provider if they occur.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as they may interact with Dexilant.
• Regular Check-ups: Your doctor may recommend periodic check-ups to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the proper use of Dexilant or if you experience any unexpected side effects.

Other uses for this medicine

While Dexilant is primarily used to treat GERD and related conditions, it may also be prescribed for other purposes, including:

• Healing erosive esophagitis: Dexilant can help heal damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid.
• Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection: Dexilant may be part of a combination therapy to eradicate H. pylori bacteria in the stomach, which can help prevent ulcers and reduce the risk of certain types of stomach cancer.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be observed when taking Dexilant. Here are some key considerations:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of Dexilant during pregnancy and lactation has not been well-established.
• Medical History: Disclose your complete medical history, including any allergies, liver disease, kidney disease, or other health conditions, to your healthcare provider before starting Dexilant treatment.
• Drug Interactions: Dexilant may interact with certain medications, including antiretrovirals, digoxin, and certain antifungal drugs. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Bone Fracture Risk: Prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors like Dexilant may be associated with an increased risk of bone fractures, especially in older adults or those with certain risk factors. Discuss this risk with your doctor.
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Long-term use of Dexilant may reduce the absorption of vitamin B12. Your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring your vitamin B12 levels periodically and considering supplementation if necessary.
• Clostridium difficile Infection: Use of proton pump inhibitors like Dexilant may increase the risk of Clostridium difficile infection, a potentially serious intestinal infection. Inform your doctor if you develop persistent diarrhea while taking Dexilant.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Dexilant, and report any adverse reactions or concerns promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Avoid Trigger Foods: If you have GERD or acid reflux, avoid foods and beverages that can exacerbate symptoms, such as spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, citrus fruits, and fatty or fried foods.
• Eat Smaller Meals: Opt for smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals, which can increase gastric pressure and trigger acid reflux.
• Avoid Late-night Eating: Refrain from eating large meals or heavy snacks close to bedtime, as this can worsen nighttime acid reflux symptoms.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take it When You Remember: If you forget a dose of Dexilant, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking too much Dexilant at once can increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefit.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you frequently forget doses or have difficulty adhering to your medication schedule, discuss it with your doctor. They may offer strategies to help you remember or adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of Dexilant include:

• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches are relatively common with Dexilant use.
• Nausea: Some people may experience feelings of nausea or an upset stomach while taking Dexilant.
• Diarrhea: Dexilant can occasionally cause diarrhea, although this side effect is less common.
• Abdominal Pain: Some individuals may experience abdominal discomfort or pain as a side effect of Dexilant.
• Flatulence: Increased gas or flatulence may occur in some people taking Dexilant.
• Vomiting: Although less common, vomiting can occur as a side effect of Dexilant.
• Constipation: Dexilant may cause constipation in some individuals.
• Dizziness: Some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded while taking Dexilant.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is another possible side effect of Dexilant.
• Dry Mouth: Dexilant may lead to a dry mouth sensation in some individuals.
• Sore Throat: A sore throat may occur as a side effect of Dexilant use.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: Some individuals may be more prone to upper respiratory tract infections while taking Dexilant.
• Joint Pain: Dexilant can occasionally cause joint pain or discomfort.
• Fractures: Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors like Dexilant may be associated with an increased risk of bone fractures, especially in older adults.
• Low Magnesium Levels: In rare cases, long-term use of Dexilant may lead to low magnesium levels in the blood, which can cause symptoms such as muscle spasms, irregular heartbeat, or seizures.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Dexilant, characterized by rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects while taking Dexilant, or if you have any concerns about your medication, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Dexilant capsules at room temperature away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or kitchen, where it could be exposed to moisture.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Dexilant in a location where it is inaccessible to children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do Not Repurpose Packaging: Keep Dexilant in its original container or packaging to ensure proper storage and to prevent confusion with other medications.
• Disposal: Dispose of expired or unused Dexilant properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Instead, follow local guidelines for medication disposal, such as using a drug take-back program or a medication disposal site.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose of Dexilant or experience severe symptoms such as confusion, rapid heartbeat, seizures, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Treatment: Treatment for Dexilant overdose may involve supportive measures to address symptoms and stabilize vital signs. Activated charcoal may be administered to help absorb the medication if ingestion occurred recently.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-ups: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Dexilant and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Dexilant, as it can exacerbate stomach issues and increase the risk of side effects.
• Avoid Smoking: Smoking may decrease the effectiveness of Dexilant in treating acid-related conditions.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including dentists and pharmacists, about your Dexilant use to prevent potential drug interactions or complications.
• Medical Alert: Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or carrying a medical alert card indicating that you are taking Dexilant, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or allergies.
• Medication Review: Periodically review your medication list with your healthcare provider to ensure Dexilant is still the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure safe storage, disposal, and use of Dexilant, as well as be prepared to respond appropriately in case of emergency or overdose.