Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Pantoprazole is utilized to address specific gastrointestinal and esophageal conditions, including acid reflux. It operates by reducing the production of acid within the stomach. The medication effectively alleviates symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and coughing.
This medication promotes the healing of acid-induced damage to the stomach and esophagus, prevents the formation of ulcers, and may reduce the risk of esophageal cancer. Pantoprazole is a member of the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) drug class.
Uses and Dosage
Take pantoprazole as directed by your physician, typically once daily. The dosage and duration of treatment are determined based on your medical condition and response to the medication.
If you are using the tablet form of pantoprazole, it can be consumed with or without food. Ensure to swallow the tablets whole and avoid splitting, crushing, or chewing them, as doing so may reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
For the granules, it is suggested to take the dose 30 minutes prior to a meal. To ingest the medication, open the packet and mix the granules with applesauce or apple juice. Do not mix with other foods or liquids and avoid crushing or chewing the granules. Place the granules on a teaspoon of applesauce and consume the mixture immediately, followed by sips of water. The granules can be mixed with a teaspoon of apple juice, stirred for 5 seconds, and swallowed immediately. To ensure that the entire dose is taken, rinse the cup once or twice with apple juice and consume the juice. Do not prepare the mixture in advance for later use.
You may take antacids along with pantoprazole. If you are also taking sucralfate, take pantoprazole at least 30 minutes before taking sucralfate.
For optimal benefits, take pantoprazole regularly at the same time each day. Continue taking the medication for the prescribed duration, even if you feel better, to ensure full recovery.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Protonix include:
- headache
- dizziness
- stomach pain
- gas
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- joint pain
- fever
- rash
- cold symptoms (most common in children)
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- severe stomach pain
- diarrhea that is watery or has blood in it
- sudden pain or difficulty moving your hip, wrist or back
- bruising or swelling at the injection site
- little or no urination
- blood in the urine
- swelling
- rapid weight gain
- dizziness
- fast or irregular heartrate
- tremors
- feeling jittery
- muscle cramps or spasms in your hands or feet
- cough
- choking feeling
- joint pain
- skin rash on your cheeks or arms which worsens at night
Caution
Prior to taking pantoprazole, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, particularly to the medication itself or to similar drugs such as lansoprazole or omeprazole. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
When using pantoprazole, provide your doctor or pharmacist with a comprehensive medical history, including any instances of liver disease or lupus.
In some cases, symptoms may indicate a more severe underlying condition. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as heartburn accompanied by lightheadedness, sweating, or dizziness, chest, jaw, arm, or shoulder pain accompanied by shortness of breath or unusual sweating, or unexplained weight loss.
Proton pump inhibitors, including pantoprazole, may increase the risk of bone fractures, particularly with long-term use, higher doses, and in older adults. Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist methods to prevent bone loss or fractures, such as taking calcium and vitamin D supplements.
During pregnancy, pantoprazole should only be used when deemed essential by your doctor. The potential risks and benefits should be thoroughly discussed with your physician. This medication may be present in breast milk, therefore it is advisable to consult with your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Protonix is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Protonix delayed-release tablet:
- 20mg
- 40mg
-
Pantoprazole delayed-release tablet:
- 20mg
- 40mg
FAQ
Is it OK to take Protonix long term?
Long-term use of pantoprazole can lead to an increased risk of certain side effects and complications. These include: Increased risk of bone
fracture in people taking higher, multiple daily doses for more than 1 year.
What should I avoid while taking Protonix?
It’s best to avoid foods that seem to make your symptoms worse, such as rich, spicy and fatty foods. It also helps to cut down on caffeinated drinks, such as tea, coffee and cola, as well as alcohol.
Resources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pantoprazole-oral-tablet#:~:text=disease%20(GERD).-,Important%20warnings,for%20more%20than%201%20year
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/pantoprazole/#:~:text=It%27s%20best%20to%20avoid%20foods,affect%20the%20way%20pantoprazole%20works
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/pantoprazole-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071434?p=1
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601246.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-18142/protonix-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/protonix.html
