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Brand Name: Prevacid

Generic Name: lansoprazole

A proton pump inhibitor - It prevents the production of acid in the stomach

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What is this medicine?

Prevacid (lan SOE pra zole) prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, certain bacteria in the stomach, inflammation of the esophagus, and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. It can also be used to prevent and treat ulcers in patients taking medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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 use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. This medicine works best if taken on an empty stomach 30 to 60 minutes before food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take more often than directed.

If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a tablespoon of any of the following foods: applesauce, Ensure brand pudding, cottage cheese, yogurt, or strained pears. 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.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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 may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

atazanavir

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

ampicillin
delavirdine
digoxin
iron salts
itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, or other prescription medicines for fungus or yeast infections
sucralfate
theophylline
warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

It can take several days before your stomach pain gets better. Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better, or if it gets worse.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible.

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
dark yellow or brown urine
fever or sore throat
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusual skin rash, blistering, or peeling
yellowing of the eyes or skin
vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

diarrhea or constipation
headache
nausea
stomach pain or gas

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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