Brand name: Pantoprazole
Pronounced: PRO-ton-iks
Generic name: Pantoprazole sodium
Why is Pantoprazole prescribed?

Pantoprazole blocks the production of stomach acid. It is prescribed to heal a condition called erosive esophagitis (a severe inflammation of the passage to the stomach) brought on by a persistent backflow of stomach acid (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Later, it may be prescribed to maintain healing and prevent a relapse. It is also used in the treatment of conditions marked by constant overproduction of stomach acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

Pantoprazole is a member of the "proton pump inhibitor" class of acid blockers, which includes AcipHex, Nexium, Prilosec, and Prevacid.
Most important fact about Pantoprazole

Pantoprazole is highly effective. In most patients, stomach acid secretion drops 85 to 95 percent after a single week of treatment.
How should you take Pantoprazole?

Pantoprazole may be taken with or without food. Do not chew, crush, or split the delayed-release tablets. If you are taking antacids you may continue to do so.

If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once.

Storage instructions...

Store Pantoprazole at room temperature.
Pantoprazole side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Pantoprazole.

* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, burping, diarrhea, gas, headache, insomnia, nausea, rash, vomiting

Why should Pantoprazole not be prescribed?

If Pantoprazole gives you an allergic reaction, you'll be unable to use it.
Special warnings about Pantoprazole

Pantoprazole has been known to cause several extremely rare--but very serious--side effects, including severe allergic reaction, severe swelling of the face and throat, eye damage, dangerous skin reactions, and inflammation of the pancreas. Seek emergency care immediately if you begin to have difficulty breathing or swallowing, or begin to develop blisters, eruptions, or peeling skin.

If you have a liver condition, make sure the doctor is aware of it. A dosage adjustment may be needed for anyone with serious liver disease.

Pantoprazole has not been tested for safety or effectiveness in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Pantoprazole

If Pantoprazole is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Pantoprazole with the following:

Ampicillin (Omnipen)
Iron
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Although no harmful effects during pregnancy are known, there's no definite proof of safety either. Pantoprazole is therefore recommended during pregnancy only if clearly needed. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

There is a possibility that Pantoprazole may appear in breast milk, causing serious side effects in the nursing infant. If you have to take the drug, you should not plan on breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for Pantoprazole

ADULTS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. Although little is known about Pantoprazole overdose in humans, in animal studies it interferes with coordination and reduces activity. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.