Prevacid, also known as lansoprazole, belongs to a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors that reduce the production of acid in the stomach. Prevacid is used to treat and prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease, stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers and Zollinger-Ellsion syndrome. There are other proton pump inhibitors that may be used instead of Prevacid.
Pantoprazole
According to Drugs.com, pantoprazole, also known as Protonix, is a proton pump inhibitor used to treat erosive esophagitis caused by gastroesophageal disease, gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Zollinger-Ellsion syndrome is a condition in which the stomach produces too much stomach acid. Common side effects of pantoprazole include nausea, vomiting, gas, stomach pain, diarrhea, joint pain, dizziness and headache.
Omeprazole
Drugs.com states that omeprazole, or Prilosec, is a proton pump inhibitor used together with antibiotics to eliminate helicobacter pylori bacterium. Omeprazole is also used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Patients who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, for chronic inflammatory disorders may be prescribed omeprazole in order to prevent stomach bleeding. Common side effects of omeprazole include stomach pain, gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headache.
Esomeprazole
According to Drugs.com, esomeprazole, or Nexium, is used to treat and prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellsion syndrome. Esomeprazole is also used in patients taking NSAIDs in order to prevent stomach irritation and bleeding. Common side effects of esomeprazole include headache, drowsiness, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, gas constipation and dry mouth.
