Rabeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that acts by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

 

What is Rabeprazole?

 

The rabeprazole is used in case of gastro-esophageal reflux to reduce the symptoms, promote the healing of the esophagus as well as prevent further damage. It can also be used to treat disorders characterized by excessive production of acid by the stomach, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and to treat stomach ulcers. When taken in combination with other drugs it can also be used to eradicate the Helicobacter pylori.

 

How should Rabeprazole be taken?

 

The rabeprazole is commercially available for oral use in the form of delayed-release tablets that should be swallowed whole with water without chewing or breaking them. When it is used to treat ulcers it should be taken in the morning after breakfast. In cases where rabeprazole is combined with other drugs to eradicate Helicobacter pylori it should instead be taken 2 times a day, at breakfast and dinner, for duration of 7 days.

 

Side effects associated with Rabeprazole

 

The intake of proton pump inhibitors may increase the risk of fractures of the wrist, hip or spine, especially if the treatment involves high doses or continues for a year or more.

 

Among the other possible adverse effects of rabeprazole are included:

 

  • Constipation
  • Gas
  • Sore throat
  • 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
  • Swelling of eyes, face, mouth, lips, tongue or throat
  • Severe diarrhea with watery stools
  • Stomach ache
  • Urticaria
  • Rash
  • Feeling light-headed
  • Muscle spasms
  • Excessive fatigue
  • Uncontrollable tremors
  • Blistering or peeling of the skin

 

Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Rabeprazole

 

Prior to undergoing treatment with rabeprazole it is recommended to tell your doctor if:

 

You have any allergies to the drug, its ingredients, or dexlansoprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole or pantoprazole

You are taking other medications and supplements, herbal remedies as well as antibiotics, anticoagulants, atazanavir, cyclosporine, digoxin, diuretics, ketoconazole, iron supplements and methotrexate

You are suffering (or have suffered) from low blood magnesium levels or liver disease

You are pregnant or breast-feeding