Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
RABEPRAZOLE DELAYED RELEASE - ORAL
(rabb-EH-pruh-zole)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aciphex
Uses
Rabeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat various acid-related stomach and/or throat (esophagus) problems (e.g., GERD, ulcers, or Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome). It works by blocking the production of acid in the stomach. This medicine may also be used with antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin, clarithromycin) to treat certain ulcers caused by bacterial infection (Heliobacter pylori infection).
How To Use
Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily before a meal; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not crush, chew, or split this medication. Swallow the medication whole. If you take sucralfate in addition to this medication, take your dose of rabeprazole at least 30 minutes before your sucralfate. Antacids may be taken along with this medication, if needed.
Side Effects
Headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, upset stomach, dizziness, or constipation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: rash, stomach/abdominal pain, back pain, unusual tiredness, vomiting. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: ringing in the ears, fever, swelling, unusual weight gain or weight loss, trouble breathing, vision problems, change in amount of urine. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: chest pain, unusually fast or slow heartbeat, dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin, seizures. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heartburn combined with lightheadedness or sweating or dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain especially with shortness of breath, pain spreading to arms or neck or shoulders, unexplained weight loss, liver problems, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies (including drug allergies). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: digoxin, azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), ampicillin, iron supplements, sucralfate. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: confusion, unusual sweating, blurred vision, unusually fast heartbeat, seizures.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
