Protonix, or pantoprazole sodium, is most often prescribed for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Other uses for Protonix include long-term treatment of erosive esophagitis and reducing esophageal irritation from heartburn. The majority of side effects from Protonix are gastrointestinal. These may be caused by the drug's proton pump inhibitors, which act in the stomach to reduce a particular digestive enzyme.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
The most common side effects of Protonix use are abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea and vomiting. As Protonix suppresses a digestive enzyme that is also a gastric acid, digestion may be slowed and result in the aforementioned conditions. Should any of these side effects occur, it is best to consult with your doctor for a possible over-the-counter remedy to manage the symptoms. The most serious GI side effect has been found to be thrombocytopenia (inhibition of clotting factors). Black tarry stools may be a sign of this side effect and should be reported to your doctor.
Respiratory Side Effects
Incidences of bronchitis, shortness of breath, cough and upper respiratory infections may increase in patients taking Protonix. As the esophageal tract runs parallel to the trachea, Protonix may also affect the physiology of the lungs. Any shortness of breath or signs and symptoms of respiratory infection should be reported to your doctor. If shortness of breath becomes severe, seek immediate medical attention.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
Dizziness, insomnia, headache and, in some cases, migraines occur with use of Protonix. Any severe occurrence such as syncope (passing out) or prolonged and persistent migraines should be discussed with your physician. A reduction in drug dosage or alternate medication may be in order. Insomnia may be alleviated by taking Protonix in the morning as opposed to bedtime. Some users have reported an increase in feelings of depression and anxiety. Should these side effects occur, discuss the possibility of changing the medication with your doctor.
Metabolic Side Effects
An increase in lipids or higher cholesterol level may be experienced by those patients taking Protonix. An increase in blood sugar has also been noted, especially in the diabetic population of Protonix users. Your doctor may find it necessary to prescribe a statin drug to lower cholesterol or adjust diabetic medication.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Some patients have experienced chest pain while taking Protonix. Should any discomfort or tightness in the chest occur, seek immediate medical attention and inform your primary health care provider.
Integumentary Side Effects
A rash, signaling an allergic reaction to Protonix has been reported by new users to Protonix. Immediately discontinuing the drug and reporting this to your physician should alleviate the symptoms; however, any accompanying shortness of breath should be reported immediately, and the user should seek urgent medical attention.
References
- "PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook 2010"; Thomson Reuters and Alexander Ivy; 2009
- "Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference"; Linda Skidmore-Roth; 2009
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