Protonix is in a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. It
is used for short-term treatment of heartburn and injury of the food
pipe (esophagus) caused by backward flow of acid from the stomach.
It decreases the amount of acid made in the stomach.
Pantoprazole is sometimes prescribed for other uses;
ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How
should Protonix be used?
Protonix comes as an extended-release (long-acting) tablet to take
by mouth. It is usually taken once a day, with or without food. Do
not split, chew, or crush the tablets; swallow them whole. Protonix
is usually taken for 8 weeks, but your doctor may want you to take
it for another 8 weeks if your esophagus has not healed. Follow the
directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor
or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Pantoprazole
exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more
often than prescribed by your doctor.
Symptoms of heartburn and injury to the esophagus should improve within
8 weeks of beginning Protonix. If your symptoms do not improve, or
if they worsen, call your doctor. Once you and your doctor are sure
the drug works for you, continue to take Pantoprazole even if you
feel well. Do not stop taking Protonix without talking to your doctor.
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to lansoprazole,
omeprazole, Protonix, rabeprazole, or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription
medications you are taking, especially ampicillin, iron-containing
medications (including multivitamins), ketoconazole (Nizoral), and
vitamins and herbal products.
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 Protonix,
call your doctor.
If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor
or dentist that you are taking Pantoprazole. 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 Protonix cause?
Although side effects from Protonix are not common, they can occur.
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:
upset stomach
headache
diarrhea
constipation
stomach pain
cough
mild rash
back, neck, or joint pain
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor
immediately:
chest pain
difficulty breathing or swallowing
itching
weakness
rash or hives
severe skin rash with swelling and peeling
swollen face, lower legs, or ankles
vision changes
vomiting
yellowing of skin or eyes
fever
confusion
slow movements
speech problems
increased salivation
difficulty maintaining balance
ringing in the ears
sinus or upper respiratory tract infection
Pantoprazole may cause hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). If you
have any of the following symptoms of hyperglycemia, call your doctor
immediately:
thirst
dry mouth
tiredness
flushing
dry skin
frequent urination
lost of appetite
trouble breathing
What storage conditions are needed for Protonix?
Keep Pantoprazole 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?
Protonix may interfere with some laboratory tests for cholesterol
and kidney function. If you are scheduled for any laboratory tests,
tell your doctor that you take Protonix.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check you response to
Pantoprazole.
Do not let anyone else take your medicine. Ask your
pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.