How does it work?

Rabeprazole sodium is a type of medicine known as a proton pump inhibitor. Proton pumps are found on cells that line the stomach, and are used by the cells to produce stomach acid. Rabeprazole works 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 that resists acid attack. If this layer is damaged, or large amounts of stomach acid are formed, a peptic ulcer can develop. Rabeprazole reduces the amount of acid in the stomach and duodenum, and this helps to heal peptic ulcers. Rabeprazole is also given together with antibiotics to destroy the bacteria (Helicobacter pylori) that, if present in the stomach, can contribute to the formation of peptic ulcers. Because it reduces the formation of stomach acid, rabeprazole is also used to treat gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. In this condition, excess stomach acid passes back up into the foodpipe (oesophagus), where it causes heartburn and, after repeated episodes, inflammation or ulceration of the foodpipe.

What is it used for?

Active peptic ulcer

Eradicating bacteria in the gut

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease

Warning!

There is insufficient information regarding the safety and efficacy of this medicine in children. It is not recommended for children.

Swallow these tablets whole with water - do not chew, crush or break them.

This medicine can mask the symptoms of stomach and oesophageal cancer and therefore delay diagnosis of these conditions. The possibility of these diseases should be excluded before you start treatment with this medicine, particularly if you are middle aged or older and have new or recently changed symptoms.

Use with caution in

Severely decreased liver function

Not to be used in

Breastfeeding

Pregnancy

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, therefore it should not be used by pregnant women. Consult your doctor.

There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. For this reason, the manufacturer states that it should not be used during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication is to be swallowed whole, not chewed.

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