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Aciphex - Uses & Side Effects

Generic name: Rabeprazole sodium

Aciphex® is indicated for short-term (4 to 8 weeks) treatment in the healing and symptomatic relief of erosive or ulcerative gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). For those patients who have not healed after 8 weeks of treatment, an additional 8-week course of Aciphex® may be considered.

Aciphex has a well-established safety profile. The most common side effect possibly related to Aciphex is headache.

Aciphex Dosage

• The usual dose is 20 milligrams once a day for 4 to 8 weeks. For patients who have not healed after 8 weeks, the doctor may prescribe an additional 8-week course of AcipHex therapy.
• Aciphex comes as a delayed-release (long-acting) tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day for 4 to 8 weeks, but it is sometimes taken for a longer time. When taken for ulcers, rabeprazole should be taken after the morning meal. When taken in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori.

Uses of Aciphex

• Aciphex is used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or heartburn), and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production.
• Aciphex is used in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori.

Side Effects of Aciphex

More common side effects may include:

• headache
• upset stomach or diarrhea
• insomnia or nervousness
• rash or itching.

Warnings and precautions before taking Aciphex:

• Before taking rabeprazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar drugs (e.g., lansoprazole, omeprazole); or if you have any other allergies.
• Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: severe liver disease, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors).
• Some symptoms may actually be signs of a more serious condition. Tell your doctor immediately if you have: heartburn combined with lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain (especially with trouble breathing), pain spreading to arms/neck/shoulders, unexplained weight loss.
• This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Drug Interaction :- 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)

Overdose

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.

• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of a Aciphex overdose are not known.