Pantoprazole (known by the brand name Protonix) is a prescribed medication used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a condition in which there is too much backflow of acid from the stomach into the esophagus. According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of GERD include a burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), difficulty swallowing, dry cough, hoarseness, regurgitation of food and a sensation of a lump in your throat. Pantoprazole, a type of medication known as a proton pump inhibitor, can relieve these symptoms.
Pantoprazole
According to Drugs.com, pantoprazole is the only active ingredient in the medication. This ingredient works by inhibiting the production of acid by the acid-secreting cells in the stomach. According to Drugs.com, it reduces acid secretion by 85 to 90 percent after a week of treatment. Common side effects of pantoprazole include abdominal pain, burping, diarrhea, gas, headache, insomnia, nausea, rash and vomiting. This active ingredient is very effective in treating GERD; however, alert your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects or are not noticing improvement of your symptoms.
Inactive Ingredients
Inactive ingredients, or excipients, are substances that are added to medications to help with ease of use. They do not have any effects on reducing symptoms. Inactive ingredients in pantoprazole, according to Drugs.com, include sodium hydroxide and edetate disodium. Alert your doctor before taking pantoprazole if you have experienced an allergic reaction to any of these inactive ingredients.
Drug Interactions
Drugs.com states that ampicillin (antibiotic), iron, ketoconazole (anti-fungal) and warfarin (blood-thinner) can possibly interact with pantoprazole. Always alert your doctor of the medications that you are taking to avoid drug interactions.
