Pariet

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How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient rabeprazole sodium, which is a type of medicine known as a proton pump inhibitor. It acts in the stomach to decrease the production of stomach acid. Proton pumps are found on cells that line the stomach, and are used by these cells to produce stomach acid. Rabeprazole works by inhibiting the action of the proton pumps, and this reduces the production of stomach acid. Stomach acid is produced in the stomach as a normal part of the digestive process. Normally the linings of the stomach and duodenum (an area of the intestine directly after the stomach) are protected by a layer that resists acid attack. However, if this layer is damaged, or large amounts of stomach acid are produced, an ulcer can develop on the lining of the stomach or duodenum. This is called a peptic ulcer. By reducing the amount of acid in the stomach and duodenum, rabeprazole allows peptic ulcers to heal. Acid produced in the stomach can also sometimes flow back into the food pipe (oesophagus). This is called gastro-oesophageal reflux, and can cause pain and a burning sensation known as heartburn. It can also irritate and damage the lining of the oesophagus, causing a condition called reflux oesophagitis. By reducing the production of stomach acid, rabeprazole stops excess acid flowing back into the foodpipe and can be used to treat gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Rabeprazole is also given together with antibiotics to help eradicate bacteria called Helicobacter pylori from the stomach. These bacteria can contribute to the formation of peptic ulcers. Rabeprazole helps create an environment in the gut in which the antibiotics can be more effective at killing the bacteria.

What is it used for?

- Active peptic ulcer
- Eradicating bacteria in the gut
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
- Excessive secretion of stomach acid due to a tumour or enlargement of the pancreas (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome)

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