Stomach acid reflux causes damage to the lining of the esophagus, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Protonix, generically known as pantoprazole sodium, can heal the damaged tissue from GERD and help prevent episodes of heartburn. Protonix blocks the action of the proton pump, which secretes acid from the parietal cells lining the stomach. Protonix can be taken on an empty stomach or with food, but particular instructions do apply to mixing the delayed-release granules.
Protonix Administration
Protonix, available as delayed-release tablets or oral suspension granules, can be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Delayed-release tablets must be swallowed whole, not chewed or broken up. The directions for mixing and taking the oral suspension granules, available in packets, are specific. Thirty minutes prior to a meal, empty one packet of granules into 1 tsp. of applesauce and consume within 10 minutes, using sips of water to ensure that all granules are swallowed. Apple juice may also be used, mixing one packet in 1 tsp. of juice. After stirring for five seconds, swallow, and rinse the container with small amounts of apple juice until you have swallowed all of the granules. No other foods should be used to mix the granules.
Reflux Disease Factors
A few conditions connected to gastroesophageal reflux disease include hiatal hernias and problems with the ability of the esophagus or stomach to empty appropriately. Hiatal hernias can increase the amount of stomach acid that washes back into the esophagus. Problems with the mobility of food and acid through the esophagus and stomach caused by underlying conditions can worsen the damage from acids. The esophageal sphincter guards the esophagus from stomach acid damage after food is propelled into the stomach. If the sphincter doesn't function well, acids can flow back up, damaging the lining of the esophagus.
Diagnosis
The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn, occurring within one hour after eating and when reclining or bending over. Some people affected with GERD complain of spontaneous reflux or regurgitation of stomach contents. When common symptoms exist, treatment is directed at symptoms without further diagnostic tests. Those who don't respond to therapy require more tests, such as upper endoscopy, barium swallow or esophageal pH monitoring.
Implications
Protonix is effective treatment for symptomatic relief from GERD. Taking an antacid for immediate relief of heartburn doesn't affect the absorption of Protonix. Protonix taken for a prolonged period of time might lead to chronic inflammation of the stomach or a deficiency of vitamin B-12, or it could disguise the symptoms of stomach cancer. Some medications might not work as effectively when taken with Protonix, such as warfarin, iron supplements and ampicillin. Follow your physician's instructions precisely when taking Protonix.
References
- "Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment"; Gastorintestinal Disorders; Kenneth R. McQuaid; 2008
- Drugs.com: Protonix
- PDR Health: Protonix
