Protonix is the brand name of pantoprazole, a medication used by people who have excess stomach acid. This medication may cause certain unwanted side effects, such as low magnesium level in your blood, which, in turn, can lead to low calcium levels. Both of these conditions can cause serious side effects of their own. Talk to your doctor if you are taking Protonix and are concerned about your magnesium or calcium levels.
Side Effects of Protonix
Your doctor may prescribe Protonix if you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease or if you have Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The medication will decrease the amount of acid in your stomach. Along with its desired effects, it may also cause some unwanted side effects, which include headaches, diarrhea, joint pain, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea and gas. It may also cause hypomagnesemia, or low magnesium levels in your blood. This is most likely to occur if you have been taking Protonix for more than a year or if you are also taking diuretics.
Hypomagnesemia and Hypocalcemia
The symptoms of hypomagnesemia include seizures, racing heartbeat, muscle spasms, fatigue, weakness and tremors. If this condition remains untreated and your magnesium levels become low enough, it can lead to the development of hypocalcemia, a low level of calcium in your blood. The symptoms of this condition include seizures, dementia, anxiety, muscle stiffness, spasms, hypotension and eczema. If you experience signs of these conditions, stop taking Protonix and seek medical attention.
Treatment and Prevention
If your low calcium levels are caused by a magnesium depletion, your doctor will likely give you supplemental magnesium to increase the amount of the mineral in your blood. This will also increase your calcium levels and may be all the treatment you require. Your doctor may then have you take both calcium and magnesium supplements. Do not take any new supplements, medications or vitamins unless you check with your doctor about whether they interact with Protonix.
Additional Considerations
Both hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia are serious conditions that require medical treatment. Do not attempt to self-diagnose and take care of the problem on your own, as this can have grave repercussions. If you experience any side effects associated with Protonix or want to begin taking new supplements, tell your doctor. Also be aware that adults over 50 who take Protonix are at a greater risk for bone fractures, so your doctor may prescribe calcium supplements initially to help strengthen your bones.
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