Aciphex Precautions

Aciphex is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient rabeprozole, a type of proton-pump inhibitor. This medication is indicated to alleviate symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, stomach ulcers and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Bacterial infections caused by Helicobacteri pylori can also be treated with Aciphex in conjunction with amoxicillin and clarithromycin. When used alone, Aciphex works by limiting the amount of acid produced by the stomach. Patients should be aware of Aciphex precautions before beginning treatment with this proton-pump inhibitor.

Indicated for Patients Aged 12 or Older

This medication is specifically indicated to treat patients aged 12 years old or older. The safety and efficacy of Aciphex have not been evaluated in patients under age 12, RxList warns. Patients in this age group should not take this medication unless otherwise indicated by a medical professional.

Potential Side Effects

While taking Aciphex, patients can experience side effects. These side effects are typically mild, and include an itchy skin rash, headache, difficulty sleeping, nervousness, stomach discomfort or diarrhea, according to Drugs.com. Patients bothered by these side effects should contact a doctor for further guidance and care. Patients who are allergic or hypersensitive to raberprozole should not take Aciphex due to an increased risk of developing a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Allergic reaction symptoms include oral or facial swelling, heart rate changes, pale skin, weakness, breathing difficulties or loss of consciousness, and require prompt medical intervention.

Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

Treatment with Aciphex during pregnancy or breastfeeding can result in fetal or infant medical complications. Consequently, expectant or nursing mothers should avoid using this medication unless otherwise recommended by a physician, RxList warns.

Use with Warfarin

Patients receiving concomitant treatment with Aciphex and warfarin may be at an increased risk of experiencing potentially life-threatening bleeding complications, reports the FDA. If a patient requires this form of treatment, he should be continuously monitored by a medical professional to ensure any problems are promptly detected and resolved.

References

Article reviewed by Roman Tsivkin Last updated on: Sep 7, 2010

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