GENERIC NAME: lansoprazole

BRAND NAME: Prevacid

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Lansoprazole is in a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPI) which block the production of acid by the stomach. Other drugs in the same class include rabeprazole (Aciphex), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole (Protonix), and esomeprazole (Nexium). Proton pump inhibitors are used for the treatment of conditions such as ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome that are caused by stomach acid. Lansoprazole, like other proton-pump inhibitors, blocks the enzyme in the wall of the stomach that produces acid. By blocking the enzyme, the production of acid is decreased, and this allows the stomach and esophagus to heal.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes, No (Prevacid OTC)

PRESCRIPTION: Yes

PREPARATIONS: Capsules: 15 and 30 mg. Oral suspension: in 15 and 30 mg unit dose cartons of 30. Lansoprazole also is available in 15 and 30 mg tablets that disintegrate when placed under the tongue (Prevacid SoluTab). Lansoprazole is available for intravenous injection in vials containing 30 mg of powdered lansoprazole (30 mg/5 ml when mixed with sterile water).

STORAGE: Store at room temperature, 15-30 C (59-86 F). Keep away from moisture.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Lansoprazole is used for treating ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

DOSING: For initial treatment of duodenal ulcers the recommended dose for adults is 15 mg daily for 4 weeks. For the treatment of GERD, the recommended initial treatment is 15 mg for up to 8 weeks. For maintaining healing (long-term) in duodenal ulcer and GERD the recommended treatment is 15 mg daily. For initial treatment of severe (erosive) esophagitis and gastric ulcer, the recommended dose for adults is 30 mg daily for 4-8 weeks. For the management of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, the starting dose for adults is 60 mg daily, and the dose is adjusted based on response. Doses up to 180 mg have been used in some patients with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Intravenous lansoprazole is approved for patients who are unable to take oral lansoprazole. The approved intravenous dose is 30 mg daily for up to 7 days.

It is recommended that capsules be taken before meals for maximum effect. Capsules should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, split or chewed.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Lansoprazole is less likely than omeprazole to interact with other drugs.

The absorption of certain drugs may be affected by stomach acidity, and, as a result, lansoprazole and other PPIs that reduce stomach acid also reduce the absorption and concentration in blood of ketoconazole (Nizoral) and increase the absorption and concentration in blood of digoxin (Lanoxin). This may lead to reduced effectiveness of ketoconazole or increased digoxin toxicity, respectively.

PREGNANCY: Use of lansoprazole in pregnant women has not been adequately evaluated.

NURSING MOTHERS: Lansoprazole has not been studied in nursing women.

SIDE EFFECTS: Lansoprazole like other PPIs is well-tolerated. The most common side effects are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, rash and headaches. Dizziness, nervousness, abnormal heartbeat, muscle pain, weakness, leg cramps and water retention rarely occur.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information