Aciphex, or rabeprazole sodium, is a proton pump inhibitor used to treat acid reflux disease. Acid reflux is when stomach acid flows back, or refluxes, into the esophagus. Its symptoms include regurgitation, heartburn and belching. According to the Aciphex website, if an individual experiences this two or more times a week, he may have acid reflux disease. Aciphex is prescribed to alleviate the symptoms by reducing acid in the stomach.
Headache and Other Pains
One of the most common side effects of Aciphex is a headache, with nearly 10 percent of those in clinical trials experiencing it, according to the medical information site eMedTV. The site goes on to state that over 3.5 percent of those in the trials experienced abdominal pain, and that other pains were also reported, including sore throats and general, unspecified pains. Usually these side effects are transient and harmless. If the symptoms last more than a few days, however, patients should speak to their doctor about it.
Diarrhea and Gastrointestinal Issues
According to Drugs.com, another common side effect of Aciphex is diarrhea, with up to 4.5 percent of patients in clinical trials experiencing this condition. Nausea and vomiting were also reported. Constipation can occur as well, although it is not very common, with only about 2 percent of patients reporting it. Although these symptoms are usually relatively mild, easing as the body adjusts to the new medication, they can be an indication of a more serious condition if they continue for more than a few days. In such cases, patients should contact their doctors for guidance.
Itching and Allergic Reactions
In sensitive individuals, Aciphex can cause allergic reactions, including itching or a rash. Allergic side effects range from mild to severe, usually disappearing in a day or two. But extreme conditions can also occur, and patients should be cautious and aware of the possibility. Reactions such as swelling of the face and throat or difficulty breathing are particularly worrisome as these can progress to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening, whole-body allergic condition. Anaphylaxis can develop in a matter of minutes, or even seconds, and is a medical emergency, requiring immediate medical attention. It is usually treated with antihistamines and corticosteroids after lifesaving measures and epinephrine are administered.
Interactions
According to the Aciphex website, the medicine may interact with warfarin, affecting blood clotting. Aciphex has also been shown to inhibit cyclosporine metabolism and reduce the plasma levels of atazanavir. The medication can inhibit gastric acid secretion and interfere with the absorption of drugs that require specific gastric pH values, including ketoconazole, iron salts and digoxin. Before using Aciphex, patients should speak with their doctor about all the medications they are taking.
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