Brand name:
AcipHex
Pronounced: ASS-ih-fex
Generic name:
Rabeprazole sodium
Why is AcipHex prescribed?
AcipHex blocks acid production in the stomach. It is prescribed
for the short-term (4 to 8 weeks) treatment of sores and
inflammation in the upper digestive canal (esophagus). This
condition, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is
caused by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus over a
prolonged period of time. Because GERD can be chronic, your doctor
may continue to prescribe AcipHex to prevent a relapse after your
initial course of treatment and to relieve symptoms of GERD such as
heartburn.
AcipHex can also be prescribed for the short-term (up to 4 weeks)
treatment of duodenal ulcers (ulcers that form just outside the
stomach at the top of the small intestine), and for
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a disease which causes the stomach to
produce too much acid. The drug is classified as a "proton pump
inhibitor." It works by blocking a specific enzyme essential to the
production of stomach acid. It begins reducing acid within an hour
of administration.
AcipHex is sometimes combined with the antibiotics amoxicillin
and clarithromycin to treat infections caused by H. pylori, a
type of bacteria that lives in the digestive tract and is often
associated with recurrent ulcers.
Most important fact about AcipHex
AcipHex will work even if your symptoms are caused by a serious
condition such as stomach cancer. For that reason, doctors are
warned to rule out cancer whenever prescribing AcipHex.
How should you take AcipHex?
Take AcipHex once a day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet
whole; it should not be crushed, chewed, or split. You can continue
taking antacids during AcipHex therapy.
If you're using AcipHex along with amoxicillin and
clarithromycin, take all three drugs at the same time twice a day,
once in the morning and again in the evening. This three-drug
regimen should be taken with meals.
--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. Do not take two doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
AcipHex should be stored at room temperature and protected from
moisture.
AcipHex 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 AcipHex.
Headache is the most common side effect of AcipHex, occurring in two
people out of 100.
Why should AcipHex not be prescribed?
If AcipHex gives you an allergic reaction, you will not be able
to use it.
Special warnings about AcipHex
If you have stomach ulcers caused by the H. pylori
bacteria, AcipHex could make the condition slightly worse. The
doctor may order a test for H. pylori before prescribing this
drug. If you test positive, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics
along with AcipHex.
AcipHex has not been tested in children under 18 years of age.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking AcipHex
If AcipHex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of
either could be increase, decreased, or altered. It is especially
important to check with your doctor before combining AcipHex with
the following:
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of AcipHex during pregnancy have not been adequately
studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your
doctor immediately. The drug may appear in breast milk and should
not be taken while you're breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for AcipHex
ADULTS
Overdosage
Little is known about AcipHex overdose. However, any medication
taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an
overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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