How does it work?

Pantoprazole is one of a group of medicines known as the "proton-pump inhibitors". Proton-pumps are enzyme systems found on cells that line the stomach. These cells use their proton pumps to produce stomach acid. Pantoprazole acts by inhibiting the proton pumps. This stops the production of acid. Stomach acid is present as a normal part of the digestive process. Normally the lining of the stomach and duodenum (an area of the intestine directly after the stomach) have a protective layer which resists acid attack. If this layer is damaged, or large amounts of stomach acid are formed an ulcer can develop. Pantoprazole reduces the amount of acid in the stomach and duodenum. This helps to heal peptic ulcers and helps to prevent them from recurring. It also helps to relieve the symptoms of reflux oesophagitis. Pantoprazole may also be given together with antibiotics to destroy bacteria (Helicobacter pylori) that, if present in the stomach, can contribute to the formation of ulcers.

What is it used for?

Bacteria of the gut that can cause ulcers

Heartburn

Peptic ulcers

Warning!

This medicine may mask the signs of stomach cancer and so may delay diagnosis of this condition. Particular care is required in people whose symptoms change and in those who are middle aged or older.

Treatment with this medicine may lead to a slightly increased risk of stomach infections such as salmonella, due to the decreased acidity in the stomach.

Use with caution in

Breastfeeding

Decreased kidney function

Liver disease

Pregnancy

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.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication is to be swallowed whole, not chewed.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Headache

Rash

Diarrhoea

Dizziness

Nausea and vomiting

Itching (pruritis)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Go To Next Page>>
The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved