Lansoprazole is a prescription indicated for the treatment of certain stomach and esophagus problems; ulcers and acid reflux.  

Ulcers are sores in the lining of the small intestine or stomach. They happen when the protective mucus that lines the stomach becomes ineffective. Ulcers are relatively easy to cure but they can cause significant problems if left untreated. It tends to produce a burning or dull pain in the stomach area. This pain is sometimes described as a gnawing or biting pain. Some people may describe a hungry sensation. Other symptoms may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Weight loss
• Burping
• Not eating because of pain
• Bloating
• Pain may be relieved by drinking, eating, or taking antacids

Acid reflux occurs when contents from your stomach move up into your esophagus. This can cause an uncomfortable burning feeling in your chest which can radiate up toward your neck. This feeling is sometimes known as heartburn. If you have this condition, you might develop a bitter or sour taste at the back of your mouth. It might also cause you to regurgitate food or liquid from your stomach into your mouth. In some cases, acid reflux can cause difficulty swallowing and sometimes lead to breathing problems like asthma or chronic cough.

Lansoprazole belongs to a class of medication known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). This lessens the amount of acid your stomach makes and helps heal acid damage to the stomach and esophagus. This may also prevent ulcers and cancer of the esophagus. Lansoprazole relieves symptoms such as persistent cough, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this prescription. This is supplied as a capsule for oral use and available in two dosage strengths; 15 mg and 30 mg.

How does Lansoprazole work?

Lansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitors. Proton pumps are found on cells that line the stomach. It is used by these cells to produce stomach acid. This medication stops the proton pumps from working and this lessens the production of stomach acid. By lessening stomach acids, Lansoprazole can help relieve indigestion symptoms as well as painful heartburn symptoms. Wherein, it is caused by excess acid flowing back into the food pipe. It also allows the food pipe to heal if it has been damaged by the acid.

By reducing the amount of acid in the stomach and duodenum, this medication allows ulcers to heal. It can be continued after they have healed to prevent them from coming back.

How to use Lansoprazole?

Lansoprazole is usually taken once a day before a meal or as directed by your doctor. It is to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Swallow the capsule as a whole and do not chew, break, or crush it. The prescribed dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. Your doctor may direct you to start at a low dose and gradually increase it. You must take this medication exactly as it is given by your doctor. You should not take less or more often than the prescription. You should begin to feel better within 2 to 3 days. However, it may take up to 4 weeks for this medication to works properly. So, you may still have some acid symptoms during this time. For some, it may require you to take Lansoprazole on a long-term basis. It is either to keep symptoms under control or to avoid the condition from coming back.

Do not suddenly stop taking Lansoprazole without the consent of your doctor. It is important to continue taking this even if you feel well. To help you remember, take it at the same time and in the same way each day. Drink plenty of fluids while having this treatment. Doing so may lessen the risk of certain side effects. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose. Let your doctor know if your condition worsens or does not improve.

What are the side effects of Lansoprazole?

Common side effects:

• Fast or irregular heart rate
• Dizziness
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Watery or bloody diarrhea
• Confusion
• Jerky muscle movements
• Seizures
• Feeling jittery

Call your doctor right away if you have these serious side effects such as:

• New or unusual pain in your wrist, hip, back, or thigh
• Severe stomach pain
• Diarrhea that is watery or bloody
• Seizure or convulsion
• Kidney problems (blood in your urine, rapid weight gain, little or no urination)
• Low magnesium (muscle cramps, feeling jittery, dizziness, cough choking feeling)
• New or worsening symptoms of lupus (skin rash on your cheeks or arms that worsens in sunlight and joint pain)

Get emergency medical help if you any signs of an allergic reaction such as:

• Difficulty breathing
• Hives
• Swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat

Warnings and Precautions

• Before taking Lansoprazole, tell your doctor if you have any medical history, especially lupus or liver disease.
• Inform your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction to this medication. Tell as well if you have any allergies. This drug may contain an inactive ingredient that causes an allergic reaction.
• This drug may cause kidney damage. Call your doctor if you have flank pain or changes in urination during treatment.
• People who take multiple doses of this drug per day for one year or longer may have an increased risk of fractures. If you already have osteoporosis, your risk is even higher.
• Taking this medication for 3 months or longer can decrease the magnesium levels in your blood. This drug can further reduce your magnesium levels if they are already low. Your doctor may give you magnesium supplements and monitor your magnesium levels.
• This is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, call your doctor right away.
• This should also not be used in people younger than 18 years old.