Proton pump inhibitors are drugs used to treat acid reflux, peptic ulcers and upset stomach. They are sometimes given in conjunction with antibiotics to eradicate Helicobactor pylori, a bacterium that increases the risk of duodenal ulcers. Proton pump inhibitors inactivate the enzyme responsible for the secretion of stomach acid. This reduces acid secretion in the stomach by 90 to 98 percent. In comparison studies, all proton pump inhibitors have similar effectiveness and side effects.
Omeprazole
Omeprazole is sold under the brand name Prilosec. It is available over the counter in a 20 mg delayed-release tablet. In prescription form, it comes in 10, 20 and 40 mg delayed-release capsules and in 20 and 40 mg powder packets to be mixed with water. The standard adult dose is 20 mg once daily.
Lansoprazole
Lansoprazole is sold under the brand name Prevacid. Lansoprazole is available by prescription in 15 and 30 mg delayed-release capsules. An orally disintegrated tablet that contains delayed-release granules and packets for oral suspension are available by prescription in 15 and 30 mg strengths. A 30 mg vial is available for IV use. The standard adult dose is 30 mg once daily.
Rabeprazole
Rabeprazole is the generic name for the brand name drug Aciphex. It is available as a 20 mg delayed-release tablet. The standard adult dose is 20 mg once daily.
Pantoprazole
Pantoprazole is sold under the brand name Protonix. It is available in 20 and 40 mg delayed-release tablets. Pantoprazole also comes in a 40 mg vial of reconstitutable powder for IV injection. The standard adult dose of pantoprazole is 40 mg once daily.
Esomeprazole
Known as the "purple pill," esomeprazole is the generic name for the prescription drug Nexium. Its chemical structure is the mirror image of omeprazole. Esomeprazole comes in 20 and 40 mg delayed-release capsules. For IV use, esomeprazole comes in 20 and 40 mg vials of reconstitutable powder. The standard adult dose for esomeprazole is 20 mg once daily.
Dexlansoprazole
Dexlansoprazole is sold under the brand name Kapidex. The chemical structure of dexlansoprazole is the mirror image of lasoprazole. It comes in 30 and 60 mg delayed-release capsules. The standard adult dose of dexlansoprazole is 30 mg once a day.
References
- Basic and Clinical Pharmacology; Bertram Katzung; 2007
- Pharmacist's Letter/Prescriber's Letter; Follow-On Drugs: Therapeutic Benefit or Economic Burden? July 2009
- Pharmacist's Letter/Prescriber's Letter; Comparison of Proton Pump Inhibitors; March 2009
