What Are the Side Effects of Aciphex?

What Are the Side Effects of Aciphex?
Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Aciphex is a drug used to ease the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and other medical conditions that result from excess stomach acid. The drug decreases the amount of acid that is secreted in the stomach. While this drug can effectively treat the symptoms of excess stomach acid, there are several potential side effects to consider before beginning treatment.

Gastrointestinal Effects

Aciphex can cause several gastrointestinal system side effects. According to the National Institutes of Health, this drug has been linked to upset stomach, abdominal pain, constipation, flatulence, vomiting, dry mouth, increased appetite and decreased appetite. These side effects can be reduced by taking Aciphex with food.

Sleep Disturbances

Aciphex can cause sleep disturbances, especially if it is taken at night. You may experience difficulty falling asleep or difficulty staying asleep through the night. This can cause daytime sleepiness and make it difficult to function. You may also experience irritability or difficulty performing in stressful situations.

Muscle & Bone Pain

Muscle and bone pain can be experienced as an ache or overall discomfort in the muscles or bones. If you experience occasional muscle or bone pain, it can be treated with over the counter pain relievers or heat therapy in the form of a heating pad or hot water bottle. If muscle or bone pain persists, consult a physician to determine if an alternate drug is needed.

Dizziness

Aciphex is known to cause dizziness, which can cause lightheadedness, unsteadiness, faintness, vertigo and loss of balance. If dizziness persists, it can make it difficult to drive or operate equipment, making it a potentially dangerous side effects. Report dizziness to a physician to consider a dosage adjustment or change to another drug.

Drowsiness

Drowsiness is a known side effect of Aciphex. Because drowsiness can cause you to fall asleep at inappropriate times, it can interfere with academic and occupational activities. It may also make it dangerous to drive or operated specialized equipment.

Miscellaneous Effects

Aciphex can cause other side effects. They include nervousness, rash and itching. When taken with other drugs, Aciphex also has the potential to cause dangerous interactions. Do not take Aciphex with blood thinners, digoxin, ketoconazole, cyclosporine, clopidogrel or atazanvir without consulting a medical professional.

References

Article reviewed by Carolyn Williams Last updated on: Aug 10, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments