Prevacid (lansoprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) designed to provide long-lasting relief from gastric acid-related conditions. By targeting the proton pumps in the stomach lining, it significantly reduces acid production, allowing damaged tissues to heal and preventing symptom recurrence. This medication is widely prescribed for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive esophagitis, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, offering both therapeutic and maintenance benefits. Its delayed-release formulation ensures optimal delivery and efficacy, making it a trusted choice among healthcare professionals for managing chronic and acute acid disorders.

Features

• Active ingredient: Lansoprazole 15 mg or 30 mg per delayed-release capsule
• Formulation: Enteric-coated granules to protect against stomach acid degradation
• Administration: Oral, with or without food
• Onset of action: Within 1–3 hours; full effect may take 1–4 days
• Duration: Up to 24 hours of acid suppression
• Available as capsules and orally disintegrating tablets for ease of use

Benefits

• Provides sustained reduction in gastric acid production, alleviating heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort associated with excess acid.
• Promotes healing of erosive esophagitis and reduces the risk of complications from chronic acid exposure.
• Helps prevent duodenal ulcers in patients requiring long-term NSAID therapy.
• Effective in managing hypersecretory conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
• Offers flexible dosing options, including orally disintegrating tablets for those with swallowing difficulties.
• Supports improved quality of life by enabling normal dietary and lifestyle habits without frequent acid-related interruptions.

Common use

Prevacid is commonly prescribed for the short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcers, active benign gastric ulcers, GERD, and erosive esophagitis. It is also used for maintenance healing of erosive esophagitis and for pathological hypersecretory conditions, including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. In some cases, it is used in combination with antibiotics for Helicobacter pylori eradication to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence.

Dosage and direction

The typical adult dosage for most acid-related disorders is 15 mg or 30 mg once daily, taken before a meal. For active duodenal ulcers, the usual dose is 15 mg daily for 4 weeks; for GERD, 15–30 mg daily for up to 8 weeks. For H. pylori eradication, Prevacid is used in combination with amoxicillin and clarithromycin—typically 30 mg twice daily for 10–14 days. The orally disintegrating tablet should be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve with or without water; do not crush or chew delayed-release capsules. Swallow capsules whole.

Precautions

• Long-term use may be associated with an increased risk of bone fractures, particularly with high doses and prolonged therapy.
• Hypomagnesemia may occur with prolonged treatment; monitor magnesium levels before and periodically during therapy.
• Avoid use in patients with suspected gastric malignancy, as symptom relief may delay diagnosis.
• Use with caution in patients with severe liver impairment; dosage adjustment may be necessary.
• May increase risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea; discontinue if persistent diarrhea occurs.
• Periodic monitoring of vitamin B12 levels is advised in patients on long-term therapy, as reduced gastric acid may impair absorption.

Contraindications

Prevacid is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to lansoprazole or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients taking rilpivirine-containing products due to the risk of reduced antiviral efficacy. Concomitant use with drugs like atazanavir and nelfinavir is not recommended, as Prevacid may significantly decrease their plasma concentrations.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea. Less frequently, dizziness, rash, or constipation may occur. Serious side effects, though rare, can include severe kidney injury, lupus erythematosus, hypomagnesemia (symptoms include muscle spasms, seizures, arrhythmias), and vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use. Acute interstitial nephritis has been reported. If any severe or persistent reactions occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention.

Drug interaction

Prevacid may interact with several medications:

• Reduces absorption of drugs requiring gastric acid for bioavailability, such as ketoconazole, iron salts, and digoxin.
• May increase exposure to methotrexate, potentially enhancing its toxicity.
• Can alter concentrations of warfarin; monitor INR closely during concomitant use.
• Interacts with clopidogrel, potentially reducing its antiplatelet effect.
• May affect pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus and saquinavir.
• Concomitant use with St. John’s wort or rifampin may decrease lansoprazole levels.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Resume the regular dosing schedule. Consistency is important for maintaining acid suppression, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact long-term efficacy.

Overdose

There is limited experience with lansoprazole overdose. Expected manifestations may reflect an exaggeration of its pharmacodynamic effects, such as hypersecretion or gastrointestinal symptoms. There is no specific antidote; treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis is not likely to be effective due to high protein binding. In case of suspected overdose, contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical attention.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F), in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. The orally disintegrating tablets should be kept in the original blister pack until use to protect from moisture.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication regimen. Individual patient needs and responses may vary. Prevacid is a prescription medication and should be used only under medical supervision.

Reviews

Clinical studies and patient reports generally reflect high satisfaction with Prevacid for managing acid-related symptoms. Many users report significant relief from heartburn and improvement in quality of life. Some note the convenience of the orally disintegrating formulation. Long-term users occasionally express concern over potential side effects, underscoring the importance of regular monitoring. Overall, it is regarded as an effective and well-tolerated option within the PPI class.