Lansoprazole capsules
What do lansoprazole capsules do?
LANSOPRAZOLE (Prevacid(R)) prevents the production of acid in the stomach, reducing symptoms and preventing injury to the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Lansoprazole heals active gastric or duodenal ulcers, and is useful in conditions that cause excessive stomach acid production such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
What should my health care professional know before I take lansoprazole?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to lansoprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take lansoprazole capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water; do not crush or chew. Lansoprazole works best if taken on an empty stomach. It is best to take the capsules 30 to 60 minutes before food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules, you may open the Prevacid(R) capsule and sprinkle the contents on a tablespoon of any of the following foods: applesauce, pudding, cottage cheese, yogurt, or a spoonful of Ensure(R) drink. Do not crush the contents of the capsule into the food. Swallow the dose immediately after preparing it; do not chew. Follow with a drink of water.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with lansoprazole?
• ampicillin
• digoxin
• iron salts
• itraconazole
• ketoconazole
• sucralfate
• theophylline
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking lansoprazole?
Side effects with lansoprazole are infrequent and generally are not serious. The most common side effects include:
• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• headache
• nausea, vomiting