Aciphex (rabeprazole) is a medication used to treat gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, which are conditions that involve excess stomach acid production. According to MedlinePlus, Aciphex is a proton-pump inhibitor that reduces the amount of acid your stomach makes. Typically, you will take 40 mg of Aciphex daily for four weeks or as your doctor instructs, says the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
Aciphex can cause a wide variety of side effects. According to MedlinePlus, it can cause drowsiness, diarrhea, stomach pain and vomiting. Chronic vomiting and diarrhea may lead to dehydration and lower potassium levels. Drink eight to nine glasses of water daily to rehydrate yourself. Include fruits and vegetables in your diet to normalize your potassium levels. Aciphex can also cause constipation, dry mouth, changes in your appetite and muscle or bone pain. Fortunately, these effects should subside within one to two days. However, call your doctor when these effects continue for three to six days. Your doctor will adjust your Aciphex dosage.
Serious Side Effects
According to the National Library of Medicine, Aciphex can lead to a diarrheal condition called pseudomembranous colitis. This type of diarrhea is caused by the Clostridium difficile bacteria attacking your intestines. It causes foul-smelling diarrhea, nausea and stomach pain. See your doctor immediately, as he can treat you with metronidazole, another antibiotic medication. Aciphex is not expected to cause any potentially life-threatening side effects. However, each person responds differently to medication, so inform your physician when you have a side effect not mentioned here.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Aciphex if you are allergic to rabeprazole or other proton-pump inhibitors. Potentially fatal side effects such as difficulty breathing, hives and angioedema (swelling of your throat and face) may result.
Drugs.com says it is not known whether Acifex can harm your fetus or pass into your milk. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
Do not combine Aciphex with atazanavir, warfarin, clopidogrel, digoxin, cyclosporine or ketoconazole. Such combinations may lead to the aforementioned side effects.
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