Prevacid (Lansoprazole) is prescribed to be used for the treatment and prevention of conditions such as ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and gastroesophaegal reflux diseases. It belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPI) which reduces the production of acid in the stomach.

Prevacid (Lansoprazole) is available as a capsule and as an oral formulation. Both of these are available in strengths of 15 mg and 30 mg. Dosage will vary depending on the severity of the patient’s condition and his response to therapy. Dosage instructions should be strictly followed in order to let the medication have the maximum efficacy. The capsule form should not be crushed, chewed or broken. Instead it should be swallowed as whole. The oral formulation should be administered directly without diluting. All medications should be administered before meals.

Prevacid (Lansoprazole) may cause side effects in some patients. In case a patient has an allergic reaction to the medication, emergency medical help should be called for. Symptoms of an allergic reaction are rash, hives, itching, shortness of breath, dizziness and swelling in the face, tongue, throat and eyes. If immediate help is not summoned, it may even lead to a life-threatening condition.

Common and less serious side effects of this medication are headache, diarrhea, nausea, constipation, stomach pain and weakness. In case these persist, the doctor should be promptly consulted.

Before prescribing a patient Prevacid (Lansoprazole), a doctor should be aware of all the medications he or she is having, especially voriconazole, warfarin, cilostazol or theophylline.

Some medications are prescribed for increasing stomach acid and when administered simultaneously with Prevacid (Lansoprazole), which decreases stomach acid, their effects may clash. Ampicillin, calcium supplements, azole antifungals including Ketoconazole, iron supplements and dasatinib are some such medications and in case a patient is having any of these, the doctor should be aware of it. Advice should be provided to the patient as to how to reduce such interactions.

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

If you are taking this medicine for gastric ulcers or reflux disease, your symptoms should improve within 4 to 8 weeks. If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, contact your doctor. DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children and pets. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Prevacid (Lansoprazole) is used to treat and prevent the occurrence of ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and gastroesophaegal diseases. It is also known to be prescribed by doctors to treat ulcers arising due to NSAID’s.

Prevacid (Lansoprazole) should be stored in a cool and dry place. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets. It should not be stored near a sink or in a bathroom cabinet as it may catch moisture. It should not be refrigerated.

Prevacid (Lansoprazole) is not recommended for use by patients who have a known allergy to Lansoprazole or any of the ingredients of Prevacid.

Before prescribing this medication the doctor should be aware if a patient has a history of tumors, liver disease or kidney disease.

This medication should be prescribed to pregnant women only when it is absolutely required.

Prevacid (Lansoprazole) is not recommended for mothers who are breastfeeding their babies as it is not known whether it passes though breast milk.

This medication is not recommended for use on persons below the age of one year.