Protonix
Pantoprazole
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Protonix
Protonix is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) group of drug. Protonix acts by blocking the production of acid in the stomach (hydrochloric acid). By blocking acid production in the stomach it helps in healing of ulcer and also in prevention of erosion or ulcer.
Therapeutic Uses of Protonix
Protonix is used for healing of a condition called erosive esophagitis (a severe inflammation of the food passage to the stomach) which is due to persistent backflow of stomach acid (called GERD or gastro-esophageal reflux disease). It is also used in prevention and maintaining of healing of erosive esophagitis. It is also used in the treatment of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (due to constant overproduction of gastric acid). Protonix can also be used in other medical conditions as determined by your doctor.
Direction of use of Protonix
Protonix is usually taken by mouth on empty stomach (but can be taken with food also). Do not chew, crush, or break the tablets of Protonix before swallowing. If you are taking antacids you can continue taking it without any restriction.
If You Miss a Dose of Protonix
If you miss a dose of Protonix, you should take it as soon as you remember. If you miss for long time you should skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
How to Store Protonix
Protonix should be stored ideally at temperature 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). But it can be stored at little higher or lower temperature then ideal for a brief period of time. Store it away from heat, moisture, and light in a tightly closed container. Keep Protonix out of the reach of children and away from pets.
More Information About Protonix
Protonix is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share Protonix with others. If you have any questions about Protonix, discuss with your doctor, or other health care provider. If your symptoms do not improve or become worse, consult your doctor.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Protonix
- Do not take Protonix if you are allergic to it or any of the ingredients of Protonix.
- Protonix can cause several but extremely rare and very serious side effects, like severe allergic reaction, eye damage, severe swelling of the face and throat, dangerous skin eruptions, and inflammation of the pancreas. Get emergency medical care immediately if you experience any difficulty in breathing or swallowing, or if you begin to develop blisters, eruptions, or peeling skin.
- If you have any liver disease you should inform your doctor about it before taking Protonix, because dose adjustment may be needed for anyone with serious liver disease.
- Protonix should not be given to children as safety and effectiveness of it is not confirmed.
- If Protonix is taken with certain drugs, the effects (and side effects) of either drugs may be increased, decreased, or altered. You should not take Ampicillin (Omnipen), Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Warfarin (Coumadin) and iron along with Protonix.
Possible Adverse Effects of Protonix
- Side effects of Protonix or any other drug cannot be anticipated. If anyside effects develop, inform your doctor as soon as possible as only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Protonix. Common and less serious side effects of Protonix are nausea, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, gas in stomach, abdominal pain, burping, skin rash, insomnia etc.