Kapidex, sold under the generic name dexlansoprazole, is a medication used to manage heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease and erosive esophagitis (a condition where acid irritates your esophagus), says Drugs.com. Kapidex is available as a delayed-release capsule and is usually given for a period of four weeks.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Kapidex can typically cause bouts of nausea and vomiting. It can also affect your digestive tract and lead to diarrhea, stomach pain or gas. In a study conducted under the National Library of Medicine, 2.6 percent of the total population of 4,548 patients studied suffered from diarrhea, 0.8 percent experienced vomiting episodes, 2.9 percent had diarrhea, 0.6 percent experienced gas and 3.5 percent suffered from stomach pain. These side effects are relatively benign, but notify your doctor if these symptoms become troubling.
Harmful Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Kapidex's harmful side effects include chest pain and changes in your heartbeat. You may find that your heart is racing, which is medically known as tachycardia. Kapidex can also cause palpitations (pounding heartbeats), severe stomach pain and excruciating heartburn. Call your doctor when these symptoms arise. She may change your dosage or find a safer medication to treat your gastrointestinal symptoms.
Other Physical Side Effects
According to the National Library of Medicine, less than 2 percent of people in a controlled study of 4,548 patients experienced anemia, swelling of the lymph nodes, bradycardia (slow heartbeats), myocardial infarction and tinnitus. Other physical side effects can include goiter (enlarged thyroid gland in your neck), vertigo, eye swelling, muscle cramps and high blood pressure. Additional side effects were reported so talk to your doctor if you develop any unusual symptoms while taking Kapidex.
Additional Concerns
Drugs.com states that it is unknown whether Kapidex passes into breast milk, so it is important to tell your doctor if you want to breastfeed. You and your doctor will decide whether it is beneficial to continue Kapidex.
According to the National Library of Medicine, you should not combine Kapidex with an HIV treatment called atazanavir. Atazanavir relies on your stomach acid to produce its beneficial effects. Kapidex decreases your stomach acid, so combining these medications can be detrimental when you suffer from HIV. Also, avoid such medications as digoxin, ampicillin esters and ketoconazole. Their effectiveness also depends on your stomach acid.
Do not take Kapidex with warfarin (an anticoagulate medication). Doing so can produce abnormal bleeding and even death.
Drugs.com states that you should avoid Kapidex if you are allergic to its ingredients. Serious side effects can include trouble breathing, hives and swelling of your throat, face and lips.
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