Pantoprazole

About pantoprazole

Pantoprazole is used to treat certain conditions caused by too much acid being produced in the stomach. Acid is produced naturally in the stomach to help digest food. Excessive amounts of acid can irritate the stomach lining, causing inflammation, ulcers and other conditions. Pantoprazole works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, relieving pain and helping to repair the damage.

Pantoprazole can also be used to treat irritation and ulceration of the stomach caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Before taking pantoprazole

Before taking pantoprazole make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take pantoprazole

• Take pantoprazole exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
• Pantoprazole can be taken with or without food.
• Swallow pantoprazole tablets whole (not crushed or chewed) with a glass of water.
• Try not to miss any doses. If you do forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. If it is, leave out the missed dose and take the next dose on time.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of pantoprazole contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible take the container with you, even if it is empty. Do not take two doses together.
• Pantoprazole is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not stop taking pantoprazole without speaking to your doctor first. If you stop taking your tablets too soon your symptoms may return.
• Do not take indigestion remedies at the same time of day as this medicine. Take them at least two hours before or two hours after a dose of pantoprazole.
• Smoking increases the amount of acid produced by the stomach and will aggravate your condition. If you are a smoker, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about stopping smoking.
• Try to avoid foods that may upset your stomach such as, alcohol, citrus fruits/juices, drinks containing caffeine, tomatoes or spicy food.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside pantoprazole.

Can pantoprazole cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Other side effects may include: constipation, flatulence (excess wind), tummy pain, insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), general tiredness, skin rashes and itchiness.

How to store pantoprazole

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.

Important information about all medicines