What is Rabeprazole for ?
This medication is a proton pump inhibitor, prescribed for duodenal ulcer, gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison (gastric acid hyper secretion) syndrome. It works by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach.
How does Rabeprazole work ?
Rabeprazole helps avoid harm to the GI (gastrointestinal) tract caused by stomach acid or infection.
How should Rabeprazole be used ?
Take this drug at the same time of day. Take 30 minutes before the first meal of the day. Swallow whole. Do not chew, break, or crush.
Common side effects of Rabeprazole ?
Headache. Loose stools (diarrhea). Gas. Hip, spine, or wrist fractures may rarely happen.
What do I do if I miss a dose ?
Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. Do not change the dose or stop this drug. Talk with the doctor.
What precautions should I take when taking Rabeprazole ?
Inform your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to other gastric medicines such as omeprazole, pantoprazole or lansoprazole.
When do I need to seek medical help ?
If you think there was an overdose, call your local poison control center or ER right away. Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue or gray skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Very bad dizziness or passing out. A fast heartbeat. Very bad belly pain. Very loose stools (diarrhea). Very bad bone pain. Very bad muscle pain or weakness. Any bruising or bleeding. Seizures. Any rash. Side effect or health problem is not better or you are feeling worse.
Can I take Rabeprazole with other medicines ?
Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially those listed here: - warfarin (a blood-thinning medicine). - ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole or similar antifungal medicines. - other medicines such as atazanavir and iron pills. Do not take antacids together with Rabeprazole. If you must take antacids, take them at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after you have taken Rabeprazole. Antacids can reduce the effectiveness of Rabeprazole when taken together. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Are there any food restrictions ?
It may be helpful to discuss your diet with your doctor or dietitian. A change in diet may help improve your symptoms. For example, spicy food tends to worsen reflux and should be avoided. Likewise, carbonated (fizzy) drinks such as soft drinks should also be avoided. - You should also try to avoid lying down soon after eating as this will worsen the reflux symptoms. - Avoid alcohol.
How do I store Rabeprazole ?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. - Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Pregnancy Category ?
Category B : Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.
Therapeutic Classification ?
Antacids, Antireflux Agents & Antiulcerants.