Pantoprazole

Pantoprazole is a proton-pump inhibitor useful for the short-term treatment of excess acids generated in the stomach. It hinders and reduces the production of gastric acids, which might cause problems like acidity and reflux disease and some serious medical problems like ulcers. This medicine is widely popular across the world and is sold over the counter.

Let us understand every aspect related to Pantoprazole.

What are the Uses of Pantoprazole?

• Stomach problems especially connected with excessive acid production 
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. 
• Oesophagus reflux problems like acid reflux
• Heartburn (Consult your doctor as heartburn could be the first symptom of a heart attack)
• Helps in preventing ulcers
• Difficulty while swallowing 
• Persistent cough

How and when to take Pantoprazole?

Pantoprazole should be taken orally in the form of a tablet or granule, or it can be given in an injectable form. In the case of oral granules, you can take them by mixing them with apple juice. You should take the medicine 30 minutes before a meal. Usually, the lowest dose is prescribed, and that too, for the shortest period of time. Swallow it wholly without breaking or crushing it. It can be taken by mouth or via a nasogastric tube. Pantoprazole is usually given once a day. It is to be taken in the morning before you start eating. If you are suffering from heartburn or GERD, then it is recommended to twice a day before meals. i.e., take 1 dose in the morning and 1 dose in the evening.

What are the side effects of Pantoprazole?

The Pantoprazole side effects include the following:

• Watery stools with or without blood
• Joint pain
• Swelling of lips, tongue, and the face
• Rash
• Hives
• Severe stomach pain
• Difficulty in breathing
• Muscle cramps
• Tremors
• Dizziness
• Kidney problems
• Fever
• Nausea
• Weight gain
• Loss of Appetite

Pantoprazole if taken for a long time can cause vitamin B12 deficiency. 

What precautions should be taken while taking Pantoprazole?

• Inform your doctor if you are allergic to Pantoprazole or any other similar medicine. The inactive ingredients in the medicine may also cause harmful reactions.

• Your medical history too should be discussed with the doctor, especially if you have any liver disease or lupus. 

• Heartburn that often looks like a stomach problem could be a heart attack if there are symptoms like sweating, arm/jaw/chest pain, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness.

• Tell your doctor about all other drugs, like vitamins and herbal products that you are taking.

• Pantoprazole may increase the risk of bone fractures if a higher dose is used for a longer time. Older adults face more problems due to this medicine. Vitamin D supplements can be taken to prevent such damage.

What if I missed a dose of Pantoprazole?

Take a missed dose once you remember it, but skip it if the next dose is due soon. You should take all the doses on time. Never take double doses to make up for a missed dose.

What happens in the case of an overdose of Pantoprazole?

If there is an overdose of Pantoprazole, it may result in breathing troubles or passing out. You can also experience side effects like watery stool, stomach aches, rashes, etc. In the case of an overdose, it is always advised to immediately seek medical help from the nearest hospital.

What are the storage conditions for Pantoprazole?

The medicine must be stored in a cool, dry, and safe place that is out of children’s reach. Keep it away from places like the bathroom to avoid moisture. It should also not be kept in direct sunlight. 

Can I take Pantoprazole with other medication?

As Pantoprazole is used to reduce stomach acids, the medicines that need stomach acids for the body to absorb them properly suffer. There are a few medicines, such as the following, which interact with Pantoprazole:

• Atazanavir
• Ampicillin
• Rilpivirine
• Pazopanib
• Nelfinavir
• Levoketoconazole
• Erlotinib
• A few types of azole antifungals

A few laboratory tests may show false results due to this medicine, like urine tests for tetrahydrocannabinol and blood tests performed to find certain tumours.

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist first before taking pantoprazole with any other medication.

How quickly will Pantoprazole show results?

It will start to work in a period of 2–2.5 hours. The effect lasts for 24 hours. It blocks the production of acids in the stomach. Pantoprazole can take 4 weeks to be effective and relieve the symptoms.

What should be considered before taking a pantoprazole oral tablet?

When contemplating the use of pantoprazole oral tablets, it is crucial to have a conversation with your doctor about the following:

• Your existing medical conditions.
• The medications you are currently taking.
• Your general state of health.

Pantoprazole vs Omeprazole

Both the above medicines belong to the class of proton pump inhibitors. It includes Pantoprazole tablet uses and Pantoprazole dosage in comparison to Omeprazole.

Pantoprazole is used for specific conditions and diseases. It is not a general acidity regulator. It is used when stomach acid is produced in excessive amounts and it becomes inevitable to block it. Follow your doctor’s advice and avoid taking it on your own.

FAQs

1. Can I consume alcohol while taking Pantoprazole?

It is generally advisable to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Pantoprazole, as alcohol can exacerbate stomach-related issues and potentially counteract the effects of the medication.

2. Is a single dose of Pantoprazole enough?

The appropriate dosing of Pantoprazole depends on the specific medical condition being treated. In many cases, it is taken once daily, but your doctor will determine the correct dosage and duration based on your condition.

3. What Pantoprazole side effects are there in the long run?

Prolonged use of Pantoprazole can, in rare instances, lead to certain side effects like reduced magnesium levels, increased risk of bone fractures, and potential gut infections. It's important to discuss these concerns with your doctor, as they can provide guidance on long-term usage.

4. How quickly does Pantoprazole start working?

Pantoprazole typically begins to show its effects within a few days to a week, although this can vary depending on the specific condition being treated. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and continue the medication as prescribed for the best results.

5. Pantoprazole is used for what?

Pantoprazole is primarily used to reduce stomach acid production and is commonly prescribed for conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, and conditions where excess stomach acid production is a concern. It helps relieve symptoms and promotes healing of the esophagus and stomach lining. Your doctor will determine the specific purpose of Pantoprazole in your treatment plan.

References:

https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601246.html https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/pantoprazole/ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/21005-pantoprazole-tablets

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.