AcipHex, the brand name of the medication rabeprazole, is used to treat the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It also may be used with amoxicillin and clarithromycin to treat ulcers of the small intestine. People should always follow the specific dosing instructions set forth by their doctors.
Typical Dosage
Adults taking AcipHex for the healing, maintenance or treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease typically take one 20 mg tablet once per day. Those taking the medication for the healing of stomach ulcers take 20 mg once daily after a morning meal, while those taking the medication to eradicate or reduce the risk of an ulcer recurrence take the medication with amoxicillin and clarithromycin twice daily with morning and evening meals. Adults taking AcipHex for the treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome usually take 60 mg once per day to start and then may have their dosage adjusted based upon how their bodies react the medication, according to the AcipHex prescribing information. The specific dosage of AcipHex varies depending upon individual circumstances, however, so patients should always follow their doctor's specific dosing instructions.
Time Frame
The length of time an individual takes AcipHex also depends upon individual circumstances. Adults taking the medication for gastroesophageal reflux disease may take the medication for approximately four to eight weeks. Adults taking it for healing stomach ulcers may only take the medication for a period up to four weeks, but those taking it to eradicate or reduce the risk of an ulcer recurrence generally take the medication with amoxicillin and clarithomycin for a period of seven days, according to the AcipHex prescribing information.
Taking AcipHex
AcipHex can usually be taken with or without food. However, those taking the medication with amoxicillian and clarithromycin for the eradication of stomach ulcers should take all three medications together at the same time with food. AcipHex tablets should not be crushed, split or chewed, as doing so may interfere with the effectiveness.
Missing a Dose
Patients who forget to take a dose of AcipHex should do so as soon as they remember, unless it is almost time for the next dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, they should skip the missed dose and continue taking the medication at the regularly scheduled time. Patients should not take two doses of AcipHex at once.
Warning
Patients should always follow the specific dosing instructions of their doctors when taking AcipHex. Taking more or less of the medication can have undesirable or potentially dangerous effects. Those who have concerns that their AcipHex dosage is too high or not high enough should consult their doctors for advice, but should not alter the dosage themselves.
