Lansoprazole is used to treat ulcers; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the food pipe (esophagus); and conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Lansoprazole is used in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori, a bacteria that causes ulcers. Lansoprazole is in a class of medications called proton-pump inhibitors. It works by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach.
Lansoprazole comes as a delayed-release (long-acting) capsule and granules to make a delayed-release solution (liquid) to take by mouth. Lansoprazole is usually taken once a day, before eating. When taken in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori, lansoprazole is taken twice a day (every 12 hours) or three times a day (every 8 hours) for 10 to 14 days. To help you remember to take lansoprazole, 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 lansoprazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
The capsule should be swallowed whole. If you have difficulty swallowing capsules, lansoprazole capsules can be opened, and the granules can be sprinkled on 1 tablespoon of applesauce, Ensure pudding, cottage cheese, yogurt, or strained pears and swallowed immediately. The granules should not be chewed or crushed. The capsules can also be emptied into 2 ounces (60 milliliters) of orange juice or tomato juice, mixed briefly, and swallowed immediately. Rinse the glass with some additional juice and drink immediately.
For patients who have a nasogastric tube, lansoprazole capsules can be opened and the granules mixed in 40 mL of apple juice. The mixture should be injected through the nasogastric tube into the stomach. Then the tube should be flushed with some more apple juice.
To use lansoprazole oral solution, empty the contents of a packet into a container containing 2 tablespoons of water. Stir well and drink immediately. If any granules remain, add more water, stir, and drink immediately. Do not use liquids or foods other than water. Do not crush or chew the granules.
Continue to take lansoprazole even if you feel well. Do not stop taking lansoprazole without talking to your doctor.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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