What is Prevacid

Prevacid (lansoprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor. Lansoprazole decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach. Prevacid is used to treat and prevent stomach and intestinal ulcers, erosive esophagitis (damage to the esophagus from stomach acid), and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Prevacid is not for immediate relief of heartburn symptoms.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Prevacid is usually taken before eating.
• Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily, before a meal. Dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• Handle the tablet with dry hands. Place the tablet on your tongue and let it disintegrate. This takes less than 1 minute. Swallow the remaining particles with or without water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet or particles.
• If needed, antacids may be taken along with this medication. If you are also taking sucralfate, take lansoprazole at least 30 minutes before sucralfate.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Continue to take this medication for the prescribed length of treatment even if you are feeling better.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: liver disease, lupus.
• If you are pregnant, planning on pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Also be aware that:

• This may increase your risk for bone fractures, especially with longer use, higher doses, and in older adults.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Heartburn with lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness, chest/jaw/arm/shoulder pain (especially with shortness of breath, unusual sweating) or unexplained weight loss.
• Diarrhea, abdominal pain, or headaches.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Symptoms of a low magnesium blood level (such as unusually fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, persistent muscle spasms, seizures), signs of lupus (such as rash on nose and cheeks, new or worsening joint pain).
• Do not use anti-diarrhea or opioid medications if you have any of the following symptoms because these products may make them worse: persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, fever, blood/mucus in your stool.
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling especially of the face, tongue or throat, severe dizziness or trouble breathing.

Q: Does Prevacid give instant relief?

A: Prevacid is not for immediate relief of heartburn symptoms