Aciphex, the brand name for rabeprazole sodium, belongs to a group of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors, and are indicated for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux or GERD, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, as well as erosive esophagitis. It alleviates the symptoms of such disorders by reducing the production of excess acid in the stomach. While usually well-tolerated, the labels for proton pump inhibitors currently are being revised by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to reflect a possible increased risk of fractures by using such medications. Common effects and symptoms are possible with Aciphex.
Headaches
eMedTv.com indicates that while this medication may cause some mild side effects, the most frequently reported symptom during clinical trials was headache. Specifically, nearly 10 percent of participants in the treatment group experienced the side effect of headaches. Additionally, some individuals may note other types of body pain, for example, muscle pain or myalgia as well as joint pain, also known as arthralgia. This side effect tends to be temporary as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if this symptom does not dissipate on its own, or becomes severe with dizziness, then contact the prescribing physician for evaluation.
Gastrointestinal Distress
Stomach problems occur frequently at the start of a new drug therapy and Aciphex is no exception, especially given the fact that this drug affects the amount of stomach acid secretion. According to Aciphex.com and eMedTv.com, frequent digestive side effects of this medication include a mild upset stomach or stronger sensations of nausea with or without vomiting. During clinical trials, up to 4.5 percent of participants complained about the symptom of nausea. Also, up to 4.5 percent of clinical trial participants experienced diarrhea with other possible symptoms that included abdominal pain and excess gas. Another side effect reported by some patients at the start of Aciphex therapy are problems having bowel movements. If constipation does develop, contact the prescribing physician. Again, these commonly observed drug effects tend to be mild and temporary, and should subside as the body gets used to the drug.
Infection
Aciphex.com states that another possible side effect of this proton pump inhibitor is a low grade infection with a sore throat. Specifically, up to 2 percent of clinical trial participants developed an infection, and up to 3 percent experienced pharyngitis. Notify the prescribing physician if cold-like symptoms such as a sore throat occur so that the symptoms can be evaluated as soon as possible.
Insomnia or Nervousness
According to Drugs.com, this drug therapy may cause some sleeping problems, that is, insomnia, such as not being able to get to sleep or not sleeping throughout the night. On the other hand, some patients may experience feelings of nervousness when starting this treatment. The physician should be contacted if these symptoms do not subside so that medication adjustments can be made.
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