Proton pump inhibitors are a type of medication prescribed to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic digestive disease. Proton pump inhibitors work by causing the cells in the stomach responsible for replacing non-acidic potassium with acidic hydrogen, called proton pumps, to cease and therefore decrease acid production. The following types of proton pump inhibitors are most commonly prescribed to treat GERD, which is characterized by frequent, defined as more than twice a week according to doctors at The Mayo Clinic, heartburn and/or acid reflux.
Rabeprazole
Rabeprazole is prescribed to treat not only GERD but also duodenal ulcers. Rabeprazole is also effective in treating Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, which is an overproduction of stomach acid, by effectively reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
The most common side effect of rabeprazole is a bad, unusual or unpleasant after-taste in the mouth. Other side effects, including body aches, excess gas or muscle pain may occur but not frequently according to the doctors at The Mayo Clinic.
Dexlansoprazole
Dexlansoprazole is used in treating heartburn caused by GERD and to help prevent esophageal erosion. Side effects are rare, but may include skin blemishes, body aches and changes in appetite.
Esomeprazole
The most-prescribed proton pump inhibitor medication, according to Consumer Reports Health, is esomeprazole. Although 25 million Americans experience heartburn every day, according to the American Gastroenterological Association, not every person needs to be prescribed a proton pump inhibitor to remedy the discomfort.
Esomeprazole may actually cause the side effects of sour stomach, belching, indigestion, heartburn and stomach upset until the body gets used to the medication. Esomeprazole is also effective in helping to prevent ulcers, especially in patients taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
Lansoprazole
Lansoprazole is an effective proton pump inhibitor that reduces the amount of acid in the stomach. It is used to treat GERD and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The most common side effects are dizziness and headache. Skin blistering and mild nausea may also occur in some patients.
Omeprazole
Omeprazole is prescribed for GERD, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and ulcers, just as the other proton pump inhibitors. The most common side effects, stomach or abdominal pain, will likely subside as the body gets used to the medication.
Pantoprazole
Pantoprazole is a delayed-release proton pump inhibitor, meaning that is does not begin working right away but the effects are long-lasting. Pantoprazole may cause excess gas, bloating and belching as well as trouble sleeping.
