CLASS and MECHANISM of Action
Generic "Protonix" becomes to a group of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. It decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
Generaic "Protonix" helps to control nighttime heartburn and other symptoms associated with erosive GERD. Of course, only a doctor can determine if you have erosive esophagitis.
Generic "Protonix" blocks the enzyme in the wall of the stomach that produces acid. By blocking the enzyme, the production of acid is decreased, and this allows the stomach and esophagus to heal.
Active Ingredients: pantoprazole sodium
Inactive Ingredients: sodium carbonate, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide, calcium stearate, crospovidone, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, iron oxide, mannitol, methacrylic acid copolymer, polysorbate 80, povidone, propylene glycol, and triethyl citrate.
What is Generic "Protonix" PRESCRIBED For?
Generic "Protonix" Tablets are indicated for the short-term treatment (up to 8 weeks) in the healing and symptomatic relief of erosive esophagitis. For those patients who have not healed after 8 weeks of treatment, an additional 8-week course of Generic "Protonix" may be considered.
Generic "Protonix" is indicated for maintenance of healing of erosive esophagitis and reduction in relapse rates of daytime and nighttime heartburn symptoms in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Generic "Protonix" is indicated for the long-term treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions, including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
How Should I Take Generic "Protonix"?
Take Generic "Protonix" exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Take Generic "Protonix" with a full glass of water. Generic "Protonix" can be taken with or without food.
Do not crush, chew, or break an enteric-coated tablet. Swallow the pill whole. The enteric-coated pill has a special coating to protect your stomach. Breaking the pill could damage this coating. Do not stop taking Generic "Protonix" even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the condition is fully treated.
Store Generic "Protonix" at room temperature.
What are the CONTRAINDICATIONS for taking Generic "Protonix"?
Before taking Generic "Protonix", tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Generic "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: 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 Generic "Protonix", call your doctor.
What Happens if I MISS A DOSE?
Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your doctor directs otherwise. If you miss a dose take it as soon as possible but if it's high time for the next dose just skip the missed one and continue your usual schedule.
What Happens if I OVERDOSE?
If an overdose with Generic "Protonix" is suspected seek emergency medical attention. An overdose of Generic "Protonix" is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.
What are the possible SIDE EFFECTS of Generic "Protonix"?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Generic "Protonix".
More common side effects may include:
- Abdominal pain
- burping
- diarrhea
- gas
- headache
- insomnia
- nausea
- rash
- vomiting
What other drugs can INTERACT with Generic "Protonix"?
Before taking Generic "Protonix", tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs: a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin); ampicillin (Omnipen, Principen); ketoconazole (Nizoral); or iron (Feosol, Mol-Iron, Fergon, Femiron, others).
If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use Generic "Protonix", or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.
There may be other drugs that can affect Generic "Protonix". Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.
Additional Information
Generic "Protonix" is available with a prescription under the brand name Protonix. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.
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