What is Generic Protonix (Pantoprazole)?
This medicine belongs to a group of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). The proton pump is the site within the stomach cell where hydrochloric acid is actually made and pumped out into the stomach. The PPIs block the formation of acid in the stomach from 80% to over 90% if enough of the drug is taken.
What is Generic Protonix (Pantoprazole) used for?
It is used to treat and maintain healing of erosive acid reflux disease, also known as erosive GERD (breaks in the lining of the esophagus), and relieve associated symptoms that may include frequent and persistent heartburn and stomach acid backup. Most patients heal within 8 weeks of treatment. Doctors may prescribe PROTONIX beyond 8 weeks to maintain healing or to prevent a recurrence of your symptoms. Controlled studies did not extend beyond 12 months.
Generic Protonix (Pantoprazole) Facts
Active Ingredients: pantoprazole sodium
Other Ingredients: calcium stearate, crospovidone, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, iron oxide, mannitol, methacrylic acid copolymer, polysorbate 80, povidone, propylene glycol, sodium carbonate, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide, and triethyl citrate.
Class and Mechanism:
Pantoprazole is in a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (ppi) which block the production of acid by the stomach. Other drugs in the same class include lansoprazole (prevacid), omeprazole (prilosec) and rabeprazole (aciphex). Proton pump inhibitors are used for the treatment of conditions such as ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (gerd) and zollinger-ellison syndrome that are caused by stomach acid. Pantoprazole, like other proton-pump inhibitors, blocks the enzyme in the wall of the stomach that produces acid. By blocking the enzyme, the production of acid is decreased, and this allows the stomach and esophagus to heal.
Generic Protonix (Pantoprazole) Storage
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
How to take Generic Protonix (Pantoprazole)?
Protonix comes as a delayed-release (long-acting) tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food. To help you remember to take protonix, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take protonix exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Swallow the tablets whole; do not split, chew, or crush them.
Continue to take protonix even if you feel well. Do not stop taking protonix without talking to your doctor.
When OVERDOSE is suspected seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of a Protonix overdose are not known.
What to do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
- fever or sore throat
- redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth•skin rash, itching
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- unusual weakness or tiredness
- yellowing of the eyes or skin.
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
- diarrhea
- dizziness
- dry skin
- headache
- nausea/vomiting
- stomach pain or gas
- tiredness
Generic Protonix (Pantoprazole) Drug Interactions
- ampicillin
- delavirdine
- iron salts
- itraconazole
- ketoconazole
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
Additional Information
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking pantoprazole.
Do not let anyone else take your medicine. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
