Aciphex is used to treat conditions where the stomach produces
too much acid, including ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease
(GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Aciphex is in a class
of medications called proton-pump inhibitors. It works by decreasing
the amount of acid made in the stomach.
How
should Aciphex be used?
Aciphex comes as a delayed-release (long-acting) tablet to take
by mouth. It is usually taken once a day for 4 to 8 weeks, but it
is sometimes taken a for longer time. When taken for ulcers, Aciphex
should be taken after the morning meal. Follow the directions on
your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist
to explain any part you do not understand. Take Aciphex exactly
as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often
than prescribed by your doctor.
-
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Aciphex,
lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole (Protonix),
or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription
medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products
you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: cyclosporine
(Neoral, Sandimmune), digoxin (Lanoxin), and ketoconazole (Nizoral).
Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or
monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant,
or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Aciphex,
call your doctor.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it
is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue
your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make
up for a missed one.
What
side effects can Aciphex cause?
Aciphex may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if these symptoms
are severe or do not go away:
-
headache
- upset stomach
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- vomiting
- constipation
- dry mouth
- increased or decreased appetite
- muscle or bone pain
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
There
may be other side effects from rabeprazole. Call your doctor if
you have any unusual problems while taking Aciphex.
What storage conditions are needed for
Aciphex?
Keep Rabeprazole 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.
What
other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
Do
not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist
any questions you have about refilling your prescription.