Lansoprazole is the generic name for Prevacid, a medication used in the treatment of ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is available as a prescription-level medicine or over-the-counter (OTC). The medication may also be used along with antibiotics in the treatment of ulceration caused by an H. pylori bacterial infection. A condition called Zollinger-Ellison disease---too much acid that is produced in the stomach---also may be treated with Prevacid.
Common Serious Side Effects
Lansoprazole may induce side effects that are relatively common, but still serious. A talk with your doctor immediately is called for if you get these. They include pain in the joints, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, itching or a rash, pain in the abdomen, or changes in appetite (either hungrier or less hungry than usual).
Rare Serious Side Effects
There are many other potential serious side effects from Prevacid use, though they are rare. These include abnormal bruising, anxiety, symptoms of the flu such as a runny nose, nasal congestion and a fever, abnormal bleeding, constipation, bleeding from the rectum, cough, pain in the muscles and depression. Other serious side effects have been reported, according to the Mayo Clinic, but there is no data on how often they have occurred in patients who have used Prevacid. These may include tenderness in the abdomen, urination with pain, nosebleeds, pain in the leg or back, skin blisters, indigestion, bloating, skin hives or peeling, and high fever. Others may include mental changes, shortness of breath, seizures, pain in the chest, eye irritation, urine discoloration, skin paleness, facial swelling, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), chills, stool discoloration, swallowing difficulties, bodily fatigue and wheezing, among others.
Non-Serious Side Effects
Dizziness and headaches are among the most common short-term side effects from Prevacid use. As you body becomes accustomed to Prevacid, these and other side effects may disappear. If not, talk to your physician. Other less common or rare temporary side effects include bleeding from the skin, halitosis, faintness, belching, speaking difficulties, mild vomiting or diarrhea, skin flushing or hot flashes, skin discoloration or coldness, and lessened urination.
