Pantoprazole
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Pantoprazole
(pan toe' pra zole)
(pan toe' pra zole)
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Protonix
Pantoprazole is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the
stomach causes heartburn and injury of the food pipe (esophagus). It is also used to treat conditions where the stomach produces
too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Pantoprazole is in a class of medications called proton-pump inhibitors.
It works by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach.
Pantoprazole comes as a delayed-release (long-acting) tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day with
or without food. To help you remember to take pantoprazole, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions
on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take pantoprazole
exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Swallow the tablets whole; do not split, chew, or crush them.
Continue to take pantoprazole even if you feel well. Do not stop taking pantoprazole without talking to your doctor.
Pantoprazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- headache
- stomach pain
- gas or bloating
Pantoprazole may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Before taking pantoprazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to pantoprazole or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: ampicillin (Omnipen, Polycillin, Totacillin); ketoconazole (Nizoral); and vitamins containing iron. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking pantoprazole, call your doctor.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and
continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
This medicine may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature
and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.
Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing,
call local emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking pantoprazole.
Do not let anyone else take your medicine. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines
you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list
with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with
you in case of emergencies.
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