Prevacid is a medication prescribed to reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach. It can also be used to treat or prevent ulcers, erosion and other conditions affecting the digestive system. Individuals who are treated with Prevacid often suffer from chronic acid reflux, heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease. As with any medication, Prevacid has the risk of side effects.
Common Side Effects
When taken as prescribed, Prevacid is generally well-tolerated. Drugs.com indicates the most common side effects to be headache, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea or constipation. RxList.com also suggests users may experience abdominal pain.
Extremely Rare Side Effects
RxList.com indicates that several side effects may occur with the use of Prevacid, but their prevalence is minimal. Examples include enlarged abdomen, back pain, yeast infection, carcinoma, chest pain, chills, edema, fever, flu-like symptoms, halitosis, secondary infection, neck pain, neck stiffness, pain in the pelvis, heartbeat irregularities, migraine, shock, abnormal stools, anorexia, heart spasms, dry mouth, stool discoloration, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, bleeding gums, increased appetite, salivation, mouth ulcers, rectal disorder, rectal bleeding, anemia, gout, dehydration, weight gain or loss, arthritis, bone disorder, joint disorder, leg cramps, insomnia, libido changes, tremors, vertigo, nervousness, abnormal thinking, hiccups, upper respiratory infection or inflammation, blurred vision, ringing of the ears, urinary tract infection, unusual urges to urinate, bacterial infection of the vagina, menstrual changes and breast tenderness or pain.
Allergic Reaction
An allergy or sensitivity to Prevacid can be serious. Signs of an allergic reaction that require medical attention include hives, trouble breathing, swelling of the face, swelling of the tongue, swelling of the lips or swelling of the throat. Anaphylaxis can occur when the airways are constricted from swelling.
