Voquezna / Vonoprazan (generic name: vonoprazan) is used to treat conditions related to excessive stomach acid. It is part of a group of drugs called potassium-competitive acid blockers. This type of medicine helps lower the amount of acid the stomach makes. Too much stomach acid can cause pain, damage the esophagus, or lead to infections.
Vonoprazan is used to help heal erosive esophagitis, a condition in which the lining of the esophagus becomes sore or damaged due to acid. It also treats gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), even when the esophagus is not visibly damaged. In some cases, Voquezna is used in combination with antibiotics to treat a stomach infection caused by Helicobacter pylori.
The way Voquezna works is by blocking an enzyme in the stomach known as the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme. This enzyme is needed to produce acid. By stopping this enzyme, the medicine helps reduce acid quickly and keeps it low for a long time. This helps the body heal and reduces pain and other symptoms like heartburn or discomfort after eating.
Voquezna belongs to a newer class of acid-reducing drugs that work in a different way than older medicines. It is designed to work effectively and help people feel better from stomach-related problems.
Dosage
It is important to follow the dosage instructions printed on the label of the box. Check with a doctor or pharmacist if there are any doubts regarding the proper dosage and treatment regimen.
The usual dosage of Voquezna depends on the condition being treated.
- For erosive esophagitis, the common dose is 20 mg once a day for up to 8 weeks. To keep the condition from coming back, the dose may be lowered to 10 mg once a day for up to 6 months.
- For H. pylori infections, Voquezna is taken with antibiotics. These are usually taken twice a day for 14 days.
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it’s near the time for the next dose. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not chew or crush them.
Storage
Voquezna tablets should be stored at room temperature, between 68-77°F (20-25°C). The medicine should be kept in its original container and protected from moisture and light. It should not be kept in places that are warm or humid, such as in a bathroom or kitchen.
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.
If a sudden allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) occurs shortly after taking Voquezna, with symptoms like swelling of the face, tongue, or throat making it difficult to breathe or swallow, or there is wheezing, hives, rash, blistering, or peeling of the skin, call a doctor or 911 right away, or go to an emergency room immediately.
Most people who use Voquezna do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Some of the side effects that have been reported include headache, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, sore throat, and changes in taste. These side effects are usually mild and may go away as the body adjusts to the medicine.
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Voquezna / Vonoprazan is approved to treat erosive esophagitis, non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections. It helps lower acid in the stomach and allows the lining of the esophagus and stomach to heal.
- For erosive esophagitis, Voquezna helps repair damage caused by acid rising into the esophagus. Symptoms include chest pain, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and a sore throat. The medicine helps reduce these symptoms and prevent further damage.
- In non-erosive GERD, there are no visible injuries in the esophagus, but patients may still feel burning in the chest, belching, sour taste, or chronic cough. Voquezna reduces stomach acid and improves these symptoms.
- When used to treat H. pylori, Voquezna is taken with antibiotics to help remove the bacteria from the stomach. Symptoms of this infection include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and loss of appetite. If left untreated, H. pylori can cause ulcers and lead to more serious problems.
- Voquezna is also used as part of maintenance therapy to keep GERD from returning after healing. This reduces the chance of having ongoing or returning symptoms and helps protect the esophagus over time.