1. Prevacid: Better Than Tums
Prevacid, also known by its generic name lansoprazole, is a proton-pump inhibitor that reduces how much acid your stomach produces. Patients experience acid reflux for a variety of reasons, including ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The esophagus is not equipped to handle the acids that the stomach creates for the purposes of digesting food and killing some bacteria. As a result, the esophagus can erode over time with acid reflux. Heartburn, which is painful, is also a symptom of acid reflux.
2. No Chewing, Please
Although your symptoms may improve, take Prevacid for as long as your doctor prescribes it. Prevacid comes in a capsule form and, depending on the reason your doctor has prescribed it for you, the dosage can vary. It also comes in a granule form that you can mix with liquid, but you should not crush or chew the granules. If you have an ulcer caused by the bacteria H. pylori, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to take in conjunction with Prevacid.
3. Your Doctor Needs to Know
As with all prescription medications, tell your doctor any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter meds. Tell him about herbals and vitamins, too. Make a list of everything you take and bring the list with you whenever you see your doctor. Your doctor may adjust your dosage when you're taking other drugs concurrently with Prevacid. Be certain he knows if you are taking digoxin, ampicillin, ketoconzole or theophylline. Inform your doctor if you could be pregnant, have a history of kidney or liver disease, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Prevacid.
4. Prevacid Side Effects Are Few
Prevacid can cause diarrhea or stomach pain. If these symptoms are severe or do not subside with time, call your doctor. As with any medication, other side effects can occur. You should talk to your pharmacist or doctor about anything that seems unusual to you after you begin taking Prevacid.
5. A Prescription for Relief
Despite few side effects, Prevacid is still a prescription drug. Don't share it with anyone. Take it exactly as your doctor prescribes it. Overdose is possible with any medication, so keep the National Capital Poison Center number handy: (800) 222-1222. If the person becomes unconscious or is not breathing, call 911 instead. Store your Prevacid at room temperature and away from heat and moisture. Don't keep it in your bathroom. As with all medications, keep it out of reach of children and teenagers.
