Why is this medication prescribed?

Prevacid SoluTab is a brand name for lansoprazole, which is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat certain conditions related to excess stomach acid production. It is commonly prescribed for the following purposes:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Prevacid SoluTab is often used to treat GERD, a condition in which stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus, causing irritation and damage. It helps reduce the production of stomach acid, alleviating symptoms such as heartburn and acid regurgitation.
• Erosive Esophagitis: This medication is used to heal and prevent the recurrence of erosive esophagitis, which is inflammation and damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid.
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Prevacid SoluTab may be prescribed for the long-term treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare condition in which tumors in the pancreas or duodenum cause excessive production of stomach acid.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines for the use of Prevacid NapraPAC, but be sure to consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice:

• Administration: Prevacid SoluTab comes in the form of orally disintegrating tablets, which dissolve in the mouth without the need for water.
• Dosage: Follow your healthcare provider’s prescribed dosage. The dosage can vary based on the specific condition being treated and individual patient factors.
• Timing: Take Prevacid SoluTab before a meal.
• Administration Instructions: Place the tablet on the tongue and allow it to dissolve completely, usually within 1 minute. Swallow the dissolved tablet without chewing.
• Storage: Store the medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
• Duration of Treatment: Follow the full course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.

It’s important to communicate with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you may have about the use of Prevacid SoluTab. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific medical history and condition. Additionally, long-term use or abrupt discontinuation of PPIs may have implications, and discussions with your healthcare provider are essential in such cases.

Other uses for this medicine

While Prevacid SoluTab (lansoprazole) is primarily prescribed for conditions related to stomach acid, there may be off-label uses that your healthcare provider deems appropriate based on individual circumstances. However, any use beyond its approved indications should be discussed thoroughly with your healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Prevacid SoluTab:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to lansoprazole or any other medications. Allergic reactions can be serious and may require immediate medical attention.
• Medical History: Provide a comprehensive medical history, especially if you have liver disease. Your healthcare provider needs to assess whether Prevacid SoluTab is suitable for your specific health conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider. The risks and benefits of using Prevacid SoluTab during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be carefully considered.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as herbal supplements. Prevacid SoluTab may interact with other medications, affecting their effectiveness or causing side effects.
• Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea: Prolonged use of Prevacid SoluTab may increase the risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience persistent diarrhea.
• Bone Fracture Risk: Some studies suggest a potential association between long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and an increased risk of bone fractures, especially in older adults. Discuss this risk with your healthcare provider.
• Low Magnesium Levels: Prolonged use of PPIs may lead to low magnesium levels, which can cause symptoms such as seizures, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or muscle spasms.
• Kidney Disease: Individuals with pre-existing kidney problems may need dose adjustments or closer monitoring when using PPIs.
• Liver Function: Prevacid SoluTab is metabolized by the liver, and any existing liver conditions may affect its clearance from the body. Regular monitoring may be necessary.
• Gastric Malignancy: In patients with uninvestigated dyspepsia who are over the age of 55 or who have new or recently changed symptoms, additional investigations may be considered to rule out gastric malignancy.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly. If you have concerns or questions about Prevacid SoluTab, discuss them with your healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Prevacid SoluTab. However, it’s generally recommended to take the medication at least 30 minutes before a meal. This allows the medication to be absorbed more effectively and provides optimal acid suppression when the stomach is producing acid in response to food intake.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Like any medication, Prevacid SoluTab (lansoprazole) can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may experience effects that are not listed. If you are prescribed Prevacid SoluTab, your healthcare provider believes that the benefits of the medication outweigh the potential risks. If you experience any concerning side effects, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Common side effects of Prevacid SoluTab may include:

• Digestive System Issues:
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Stomach pain
• Nervous System Effects:
  • Headache
• Respiratory System Issues:
  • Respiratory infection
• Musculoskeletal Issues:
  • Back pain
• Other Possible Side Effects:
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
  • Dry mouth

Serious side effects are rare but may include:

• Allergic Reactions:
  • Rash
  • Itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing
• Severe Stomach Pain: This could be a sign of a more serious condition, and immediate medical attention is needed.
• Kidney Problems: Changes in the amount of urine or blood in the urine.
• Liver Problems: Symptoms may include yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting.
• Low Magnesium Levels: This can cause symptoms such as seizures, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or muscle spasms.

It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any severe allergic reactions or serious side effects. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider of any side effects, even if they are not listed above, as they can provide guidance on the best course of action.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual reactions can vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and contact them if you have any concerns about your medication.

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

Storage and Disposal of Prevacid SoluTab:

• Storage:
  • Keep Prevacid SoluTab at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
  • Store it in its original container, and keep the container tightly closed.
  • Do not store it in the bathroom.
• Disposal:
  • Follow local regulations for medication disposal. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.
  • Dispose of expired or unused medication properly. Your pharmacist or local waste disposal company can provide guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose or emergency, seek immediate medical attention.

• Symptoms of overdose may include confusion, headache, drowsiness, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, sweating, flushing, shortness of breath, or seizure.

What other information should I know?

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider of any allergies you have, especially if you’re allergic to lansoprazole (the active ingredient in Prevacid SoluTab) or any other medications.
• Medical History: Share your medical history, especially if you have liver disease or any other serious health conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The risks and benefits of using Prevacid SoluTab during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Side Effects: Be aware of possible side effects and contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or severe reactions.
• Regular Follow-up: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any specific questions you may have about Prevacid SoluTab. If you have concerns or experience adverse effects, seek medical advice promptly.