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Lansoprazole

Lansoprazole

Where is Lansoprazole used?

Lansoprazole is a prescription indicated for the treatment of certain stomach and esophagus problems such as ulcers and acid reflux. This is in the class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). This lessens the amount of acid your stomach makes and helps restore acid damage to the esophagus and stomach. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medicine.

How does Lansoprazole work?

Proton pumps are found on cells that line the stomach. It is used by these cells to produce stomach acid. Lansoprazole stops the proton pumps from working and lessens the production of stomach acid. By lessening stomach acids, this medicine helps relieve painful heartburn symptoms as well as indigestion symptoms. Wherein, it is caused by extra acid flowing back into the food pipe. It also allows the food pipe to heal if it has been damaged by the acid.  

By decreasing the quantity of acid in the duodenum and stomach, this medication allows ulcers to heal. It can be continued after they have healed to prevent them from coming back.  

How is Lansoprazole taken?

Lansoprazole is usually taken once a day before a meal or as directed by your doctor. It is to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Your doctor may direct you to start at a low dose and gradually increase it. You must take this medication exactly as it is given by your doctor. You should not take less or more often than the prescription.

You should begin to feel better within 2 to 3 days. However, it might take up to 4 weeks for this medication to works well. During this time, you may still have some acid symptoms. For some, it may require you to take Lansoprazole on a lasting basis. It is either to avoid the condition from coming back or to keep symptoms under control.

What are the possible side effects of Lansoprazole?

  • Dizziness
  • Muscle cramps or weakness
  • Watery or bloody diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhea

What are the precautions in taking Lansoprazole?

  • Before taking Lansoprazole, tell your doctor if you have any medical history especially of lupus or liver disease.
  • This is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, call your doctor right away.
  • Inform your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction to this medication. Tell also if you have any allergies. This drug may contain an inactive ingredient that causes an allergic reaction.
  • Taking this medication for 3 months or longer can decrease the magnesium levels in your blood. This drug can further reduce your magnesium levels if they are already low. Your doctor may give you magnesium supplements and monitor your magnesium levels.
  • People who take multiple doses of this drug per day for one year or longer may have an increased risk of fractures. If you already have osteoporosis, your risk is even higher.
  • This should also not be used in people younger than 18 years old.
  • Taking this drug may reason to kidney damage. During treatment, if you have flank pain or changes in urination, call your doctor right away.