Why is this medication prescribed?

Prevacid 24HR is a brand name for a medication called lansoprazole, which belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Lansoprazole is primarily prescribed to treat conditions related to excessive stomach acid production. Some common indications for Prevacid 24HR include:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): It is used to treat symptoms of GERD, a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and irritation.
• Erosive Esophagitis: Prevacid 24HR is prescribed to heal and prevent the recurrence of erosive esophagitis, which is inflammation and damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid.
• Peptic Ulcers: It may be used to promote the healing of peptic ulcers, which are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or small intestine.
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: In rare cases, it is used to manage excess stomach acid production associated with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare tumor that can occur in the pancreas or duodenum.

How should this medicine be used?

Prevacid 24HR is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, and its use is generally straightforward. However, it’s crucial to follow the recommended guidelines provided on the product packaging or as directed by a healthcare professional. Here are general instructions for using Prevacid 24HR:

• Dosage: The typical recommended dose for Prevacid 24HR is one capsule (15 mg or 30 mg) per day. The capsule should be taken at least 30 minutes before a meal.
• Administration: Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the capsule.
• Timing: Take Prevacid 24HR at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system.
• Duration: Follow the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve before completion. If you have concerns or questions about the duration of use, consult your healthcare provider.
• Food and Antacids: Take Prevacid 24HR before a meal. It is typically more effective when taken on an empty stomach. Avoid taking Prevacid 24HR with antacids, as they may interfere with the absorption of the medication.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Consultation with Healthcare Provider: If you have any concerns about the use of Prevacid 24HR, including potential interactions with other medications or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your healthcare provider.

Always read and follow the instructions provided with the medication, and do not hesitate to contact your healthcare professional if you have questions or experience any unexpected side effects. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly.

Other uses for this medicine

Prevacid 24HR (lansoprazole) is primarily used to treat conditions related to excessive stomach acid production, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive esophagitis, and peptic ulcers. While it is primarily indicated for these conditions, sometimes medications are used “off-label” for other purposes based on the judgment of healthcare professionals. However, any off-label use should be discussed and decided upon by a healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Prevacid 24HR:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to lansoprazole or any other medications.
• Medical History: Provide your healthcare provider with a detailed medical history, especially if you have liver disease.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While Prevacid 24HR is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits and risks.
• Bone Fractures: Some studies have suggested a possible association between long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like lansoprazole and an increased risk of bone fractures, particularly in the hip, wrist, or spine. If you are at risk for osteoporosis or have concerns about bone health, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
• Kidney Disease: If you have kidney problems, your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dosage or monitor you more closely.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as lansoprazole can interact with certain medications.
• Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea: PPIs like lansoprazole have been associated with an increased risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Inform your healthcare provider if you develop persistent diarrhea while taking Prevacid 24HR.
• Long-Term Use: Prolonged use of PPIs may be associated with certain risks, and it’s generally recommended to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the use of Prevacid 24HR, and do not hesitate to seek their advice if you have any concerns or experience unexpected side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Prevacid 24HR. However, it’s generally recommended to take the medication before a meal, at least 30 minutes before eating. This helps optimize its effectiveness in reducing stomach acid production. Additionally, avoid taking Prevacid 24HR with antacids, as they may interfere with the absorption of the medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Prevacid 24HR, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Prevacid 24HR (lansoprazole) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it may cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and they can vary in severity. If you have concerns about potential side effects or experience any unusual symptoms while taking Prevacid 24HR, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider. Common side effects may include:

• Digestive System Issues:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Flatulence (gas)
  • Abdominal pain
• Nervous System Effects:
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
• Musculoskeletal Effects:
  • Back pain
• Respiratory System Effects:
  • Upper respiratory tract infection
• Other Common Side Effects:
  • Rash
  • Itching (pruritus)

It’s important to note that serious side effects are rare but can occur. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Allergic Reactions:
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • Severe itching or rash
  • Severe dizziness
• Kidney Problems:
  • Changes in urination
  • Blood in urine
• Liver Problems:
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark urine
• Low Magnesium Levels:
  • Symptoms may include muscle spasms, irregular heartbeat, or seizures.
• Bone Fractures: Long-term use of PPIs like Prevacid 24HR may be associated with a slightly increased risk of bone fractures, particularly in the hip, wrist, or spine.

It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider of any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking to minimize the risk of potential interactions or adverse effects. Additionally, your healthcare provider will weigh the potential benefits of the medication against the risk of side effects based on your individual health profile.

If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects, seek prompt medical attention. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your healthcare provider, as abruptly stopping a PPI may lead to a rebound effect of increased acid production.

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

Storage and Disposal of Prevacid 24HR:

• Storage:
  • Store Prevacid 24HR at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
  • Keep the medication in its original packaging to protect it from light.
  • Do not store it in the bathroom.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of expired or unused medications properly.
  • Follow local regulations or guidelines for medication disposal.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center immediately. Overdose symptoms may include:

• Confusion
• Blurred vision
• Rapid heartbeat
• Nausea and vomiting

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-up: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and address any concerns.
• Blood Tests: Your healthcare provider may perform periodic blood tests to monitor kidney and liver function, especially with long-term use.
• Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco: Limit or avoid alcohol and tobacco use, as they can exacerbate certain conditions for which Prevacid 24HR is prescribed.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers (including dentists and pharmacists) about your use of Prevacid 24HR, as it may interact with other medications.
• Dietary Considerations: While there are no specific dietary restrictions, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can complement the effectiveness of Prevacid 24HR in managing certain conditions.
• Educate Yourself: Understand the proper use of the medication, including when to take it, potential side effects, and what to do in case of missed doses.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider to assess the benefits and risks.
• Report Side Effects: Report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the use of Prevacid 24HR. If you have questions or concerns, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your individual health needs and conditions.