Aciphex
Rabeprazole
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action
Aciphex is a proton pump inhibitor drug. Aciphex causes reduction of acid secretion in the stomach from gastric parietal cells by blocking hydrogen-potassium ATPase enzyme that is responsible for gastric acid secretion from gastric parietal cells.
Therapeutic Uses of the Product
Aciphex is used for the treatment of peptic ulcer, GERD (gastroesophageal reflex disease). Aciphex is also used in treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (causes excess gastric acid secretion due to tumor). It can also be used in combination with appropriate antibiotics for ulcer in the small intestine and also in preventing them from recurring.
Direction of use
Take Aciphex orally ideally in empty stomach, but can be taken with food also. Aciphex is taken as a whole without breaking, crushing or chewing it. If you are taking antacids than take Aciphex at least 30 minutes before taking antacid. Aciphex should be taken for long duration. If you are taking antifungal drug like fluconazole, take fluconazole at least 2 hours before taking Aciphex.
Dose of Aciphex, if Missed
If you miss one dose of Aciphex take it as soon as you remember. If missed for longer time than skip the missed dose and continue with regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses to catch up for the missed dose.
How to Store
Aciphex is stored in cool dry container away from moisture and sunlight. The storing temperature should be from 20-25 degree Centigrade (68 – 77 degree Fahrenheit) or room temperature. Aciphex can be stored at little higher or lower temperature for a short duration. Do not store Aciphex in bathroom or any place where humidity is high. Keep Aciphex out of reach of children.
More Information About
Despite taking Aciphex if symptoms do not improve consult your doctor immediately. Do not share Aciphex with anybody, use it for yourself only.
Warning/safety Precaution
Do not take Aciphex if you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Aciphex.
Consult your doctor if any of the following develops to you:
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Breast feeding should not be done if you are taking Aciphex as it is not clear Aciphex is secreted in breast milk or not.
- Avoid exposure to sun as Aciphex increases sensitivity to sun. if you are planning outdoor activity, protect yourself with sunscreen and protective clothing.
- Lab tests can be done to monitor the effectiveness of the response to Aciphex.
Possible Adverse Effects of Aciphex
Like any other medicines Aciphex has its own side effects. Common side effects of Aciphex are diarrhea, headache etc. But many patients have no or minor side effects.
Consult your doctor if you get any of the side effects:
- Severe allergic reactions (breathlessness, itching, skin rash, tightness in chest, swelling of face, tongue, throat, lips etc.) due to any of the ingredients of Aciphex.
- Irregular heart beats, chest pain, stomach pain (may be severe) fever, headache, fatigue, vision change.
- Abnormal bleeding, peeling, swelling, redness or blistering of skin.
