Barrett's disease, also called Barrett's esophagus, is a condition caused by chronic exposure of gastric acid to the esophagus. Chronic gastrointestinal reflux disease or GERD can lead to Barrett's disease. Proton pump inhibitors, a class of medications that reduce acid reflux and control gastric acid output, are prescribed to treat Barrett's disease.
Esomeprazole
Esomeprazole is the generic name for a proton pump inhibitor that reduces gastric acid output. This prescription strength medication is available in a delayed-release capsule or suspension. Allergies, liver problems, a history of stomach or intestinal cancer, pregnancy or plans to become pregnant, and breastfeeding or plans to breastfeed need to be reported to your physician. It is important to continue taking this drug for the entire length of time it has been prescribed even if symptoms are relieved.
Lansoprazole
Lansoprazole is the generic name for a proton pump inhibitor that decreases the production of stomach acid. It is taken by mouth and available in a delayed-release capsule, dissolving tablet or suspension. It should always be taken on an empty stomach and never chewed or crushed. Tell your doctor if you have any allergies, liver problems, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Constipation and diarrhea are possible side effects. Stomach pain is a more serious side effect and should immediately be reported to your physician. Since it is unknown if lansoprazole passes through to breast milk, breastfeeding while taking this medication is not recommended. Continue taking this drug at the prescribed dosage and schedule even if symptoms are relieved.
Dexlansoprazole
Dexlansoprazole is the generic name for a proton pump inhibitor that reduces the production of gastric acid within one hour of taking the drug. A second release action occurs 4 to 5 hours later to further reduce the amount of stomach acid. It is taken orally, with or without food and is available in a delayed-release capsule form. It is important to take the medication for the full prescribed time. Allergies, a history of liver disease, pregnancy or plans to become pregnant and breastfeeding must be reported to your physician.
Omeprazole
Omeprazole is the generic name for a proton pump inhibitor that reduces the production of gastric acid. An over-the-counter form of omeprazole is available in a 20 mg dose. It is taken by mouth and available by prescription in a delayed-release capsule of 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg strength. Omeprazole should be taken before eating and never chewed or crushed. An oral suspension of this medication is available. Allergies and a history of liver disease and cardiac disease need to be reported to your physician. Omeprazole is recommended during pregnancy only when necessary. Breast feeding is not advised since it is unknown if this medication passes through breast milk. Dizziness can be a side effect of omeprazole. Omeprazole does not provide immediate relief for the symptoms of acid reflux.
Pantoprazole
Pantoprazole is the generic name for a proton pump inhibitor that decreases the amount of gastric acid that is produced. It is prescribed for short-term relief of acid reflux and to maintain healing of the damaged esophagus. Before taking pantoprazole, tell your physician if you have any allergies, a history of liver disease, stomach or intestinal cancer, are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or are breast feeding. Pantoprazole is taken by mouth and is available as a delayed-release tablet in two strengths, 20 mg and 40 mg as well as a delayed release suspension of one strength, 40 mg.
