Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that acts by reducing the production of acid in the stomach.
What is Pantoprazole?
Pantoprazole is used in case of gastro-esophageal reflux to reduce the symptoms, allowing the esophagus to heal and it helps prevent further damage.
It is also used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
How should Pantoprazole be taken?
Pantoprazole is commercially available for oral use in the form of granules for suspensions or tablets with delayed release. The suspension can also be taken through a nasogastric tube. Generally, the tablets should be taken 1 or 2 times a day. The granulate can also be suspended in juice or apple pulp and must be taken 30 minutes before meals, usually 1 or 2 times per day.
Side effects associated with Pantoprazole
The intake of proton pump inhibitors can increase the risk of fractures of the wrist, hip or spine, especially when it involves high doses or continues for more than a year. Prolonged intake of pantoprazole can also weaken the wall of the stomach and reduce the blood levels of vitamin B12.
Other possible side effects associated with pantoprazole may include:
- Constipation
- Joint pain
- Gas
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Moreover, you should immediately contact a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Irregular heartbeat (fast or pounding)
- Dizziness
- Convulsions
- Difficulty breathing or difficulty swallowing
- Fever
- Blistering or peeling of the skin
- Swelling of eyes, face, lips, mouth, throat or tongue
- Severe diarrhea with watery stools
- Stomach ache
- Urticaria
- Itching
- Rash
- Hoarseness
- Feeling light-headed
- Muscle spasms
- Excessive fatigue
- Uncontrollable tremors
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Pantoprazole
Prior to undergoing treatment with pantoprazole it is recommended to inform your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the drug, its active substances or dexlansoprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole, rabeprazole or to other medications and supplements, herbal remedies as well as antibiotics, anticoagulants, atazanavir, digoxin, diuretics, iron supplements, ketoconazole, methotrexate and nelfinavir
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from low blood levels of magnesium or infections with Helicobacter pylori.
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
