Lansoprazole capsules

June 22, 2018

Lansoprazole capsules

What is this medicine?

LANSOPRAZOLE (lan SOE pra zole) prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, certain bacteria in the stomach, inflammation of the esophagus, and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. It can also be used to prevent and treat ulcers in patients taking medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. This medicine works best if taken on an empty stomach 30 to 60 minutes before food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take more often than directed.

If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a tablespoon of any of the following foods: applesauce, Ensure brand pudding, cottage cheese, yogurt, or strained pears. Do not crush the contents of the capsule into the food. Swallow the dose immediately after preparing it. Do not chew. Follow with a drink of water.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • bone, muscle or joint pain

  • breathing problems

  • chest pain or chest tightness

  • dark yellow or brown urine

  • diarrhea

  • dizziness

  • fast, irregular heartbeat

  • feeling faint or lightheaded

  • fever or sore throat

  • muscle spasm

  • palpitations

  • rash on cheeks or arms that gets worse in the sun

  • redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

  • seizures

  • stomach polyps

  • tremors

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

  • unusually weak or tired

  • yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • constipation

  • dry mouth

  • headache

  • loose stools

  • nausea

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • atazanavir

  • nelfinavir

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • ampicillin

  • delavirdine

  • digoxin

  • diuretics

  • iron salts

  • itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, or other prescription medicines for fungus or yeast infections

  • sucralfate

  • theophylline

  • warfarin

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • liver disease

  • low levels of magnesium in the blood

  • lupus

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to lansoprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

It can take several days before your stomach pain gets better. Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better, or if it gets worse.

Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.

You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

Updated:  

June 22, 2018