Prevacid / Lansoprazole / Lanton (lansoprazole) is a
proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that acts to decrease the production of stomach acid. In a healthy gut, a layer that resists acid attacks protects the lining of the stomach and the duodenum. If this layer is damaged, or acid production increases, an ulcer can develop on the linings and can penetrate through the wall of the gut, causing leakage of gut content into the abdominal cavity.
Lansoprazole inhibits the secretion of gastric acid and is therefore effective in treating acid-related disorders in the upper gastrointestinal tract, including gastric and duodenal ulcers, reflux esophagitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It can also be prescribed for prolonged and maintenance treatment to prevent the recurrence of GERD or duodenal ulcers. It may be prescribed along with antibiotics for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori, which is one of the major causes of peptic ulcers and gastritis.
Lansoprazole is also suitable for the short-term treatment (up to 4 weeks) of any dyspeptic effects caused by excessive gastric acidity, such as heartburn and/or upper abdominal pain. Read our informative blog for more
information on GERD and IBS.
Dosage
The dosage and duration of treatment will be determined by the prescribing doctor. Treatment with Lanton should not be discontinued or changed without first consulting with a doctor or pharmacist.
The usual dosage of Prevacid is one capsule in the morning, to be taken at least 30 minutes before eating. If the prescribed dose is one capsule twice daily, it should be split by 12 hours, both at least 30 minutes before a meal. Prevacid capsules should be swallowed whole with water.
Storage
Store at 25°C (77°F) in the original container. Once the bottle has been opened, the content can only be used for 60 days. Dispose of safely. Do not flush down a toilet or basin, or throw into the garbage. Read our helpful blog for tips on
handling medicine safely.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.
Most people who use Prevacid do not experience any negative side effects. Doctors prescribe Prevacid because they assess that the benefits that such treatment yields outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Some of the side effects that have been reported include:
- Headache, dizziness, tiredness, general malaise
- Diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, flatulence
- Dryness or pain in the mouth or throat
- Itchiness, skin rashes
- Urticaria
- Changes in liver function (seen in blood tests, for example as an increase in liver enzymes)
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Excess acid levels in the gastroesophageal tract can produce a number of conditions, including gastric and duodenal ulcers, reflux esophagitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). There can also be prolonged bouts of GERD or duodenal ulcers. Infection by H pylori is one of the major causes of peptic ulcers and gastritis and requires dual treatment of both antibiotics and reductions in acid levels.
Prevacid / Lanton / Lansoprazole is prescribed for the treatment of:
- Frequent dyspepsia or pyrosis (heartburn) that occurs 2 or more times per week
- Non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Gastric ulcers
- Duodenal ulcers
- Reflux esophagitis
- Pathological hypersecretory conditions, including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.