Zoton (lansoprazole)

How does it work?

Zoton fastabs and suspension contain the active ingredient lansoprazole, which is a type of medicine called a proton pump inhibitor. (NB. Lansoprazole is also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine.) Lansoprazole 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. Lansoprazole 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 small intestine directly after the stomach) are protected by a layer that resists attack from this acid. However, if this layer is damaged, or large amounts of stomach acid are formed, an ulcer can develop on the lining of the stomach or duodenum. This is called a peptic ulcer.

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, lansoprazole can be used to treat all these and other conditions.

By reducing the amount of acid in the stomach and duodenum, lansoprazole relieves the symptoms of indigestion caused by excess stomach acid. It also allows peptic ulcers to heal, and can be continued after they have healed to help prevent them recurring.

Lansoprazole stops excess acid flowing back into the foodpipe and can be used to relieve heartburn symptoms associated with acid reflux. It also allows the oesophagus to heal in reflux oesophagitis.

Lansoprazole can also be used to prevent and treat peptic ulcers that can occur as a side effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as diclofenac. NSAIDs relieve pain and inflammation by reducing the production of substances called prostaglandins. Unfortunately, prostaglandins are also produced in the stomach and help to protect the stomach lining from acid, so NSAIDs can allow the acid to irritate the stomach. Lansoprazole is used to treat peptic ulcers that occur due to this irritation. It also relieves side effects such as indigestion that can be associated with taking these medicines. Lansoprazole is also sometimes prescribed in combination with NSAIDs to help prevent peptic ulcers from developing.

Lansoprazole is also given together with antibiotics (usually clarithromycin plus metronidazole or amoxicillin) to help eradicate a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori from the stomach of people with a peptic ulcer, or ulcer-like indigestion symptoms. These bacteria can contribute to the formation of peptic ulcers. Lansoprazole allows the ulcers to heal and helps create an environment in the gut in which the antibiotics can be more effective at killing the bacteria.

Lansoprazole is used in varying doses and for varying lengths of time depending on the condition being treated.

What is it used for?

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

Indigestion symptoms related to excess stomach acid, such as heartburn and abdominal pain

Peptic ulcers

Prevention and treatment of peptic ulcers and digestive side effects associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Eradicating a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori from the gut of people with peptic ulcer or ulcer-like indigestion symptoms (in combination with antibiotics)

Excessive secretion of stomach acid due to a tumour or enlargement of the pancreas (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome).

Warning!

Lansoprazole is broken down by stomach acid. For this reason, Zoton fastabs contain microgranules of lansoprazole that have a special 'enteric coat' to protect the lansoprazole from the acid. This allows the lansoprazole to pass through the stomach into the intestine, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Zoton fastabs must not be chewed, broken or crushed, as this would destroy the special granule coat, allowing the lansoprazole to be broken down in the stomach and making it ineffective.

Zoton fastabs should be placed on the tongue and gently sucked. The tablet rapidly disperses in the mouth, releasing the microgranules which are swallowed with the saliva. Zoton fastabs can also be swallowed whole with a drink of water.

Zoton suspension also consists of granules that have a special 'enteric coat' to protect the lansoprazole from the stomach acid. The contents of each sachet of granules should be mixed with 30ml (two tablespoons) of tap water and the mixture swallowed immediately. Do not chew or crush the granules.

As lansoprazole decreases the acidity in the stomach, it may lead to a slightly increased risk of stomach infections such as Salmonella and Campylobacter.

Stomach cancer can have similar symptoms to stomach ulcers, and these symptoms can be relieved by lansoprazole. For this reason, if it is suspected that you have a stomach ulcer, your doctor should exclude the possibility of stomach cancer before you start treatment with this medicine. Otherwise, this medicine could mask the symptoms of stomach cancer and therefore delay diagnosis of this condition. This is particularly important if you are middle aged or older and have new or recently changed symptoms.

The manufacturer has not studied this medicine in children. It is not recommended for children.

Use with caution in

Severely decreased liver function.

Not to be used in

Known sensitivity or allergy to any ingredient.

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine during pregnancy has not been established. The manufacturer therefore advises that it should be avoided during pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

It is not known if this medicine passes into breast milk. It is not recommended for use by breastfeeding mothers, unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Do not take indigestion remedies at the same time of day as this medication.

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