Pantoprazole (patient information)

Why is this medication prescribed
Pantoprazole is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the food pipe (esophagus). It is also used to treat conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Pantoprazole is in a class of medications called proton-pump inhibitors. It works by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach.

How should this medicine be used
Pantoprazole comes as a delayed-release (long-acting) tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food. To help you remember to take pantoprazole, take it around the same time every day. 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.

Swallow the tablets whole; do not split, chew, or crush them.

Continue to take pantoprazole even if you feel well. Do not stop taking pantoprazole without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
This medicine may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow
Before taking pantoprazole


 * tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to pantoprazole 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: ampicillin (Omnipen, Polycillin, Totacillin); ketoconazole (Nizoral); and vitamins containing iron. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
 * tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking pantoprazole, call your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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 your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Side effects
''Pantoprazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:''


 * diarrhea
 * headache
 * stomach pain
 * gas or bloating

Pantoprazole may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine
Keep this medication 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.

In case of emergency/overdose
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know
Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking pantoprazole.

Do not let anyone else take your medicine. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Brand names

 * Protonix®