Proton Pump Inhibitors

Esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole (Protonix), and rabeprazole (Aciphex) are examples of proton pump inhibitors. Esomeprazole is a newer, improved form of omeprazole and has been found to provide sustained relief of heartburn pain more quickly than omeprazole (in 5 days with esomeprazole taken at 40 mg/day versus 7-9 days with omeprazole at 20 mg/day).

• How proton pump inhibitors work: These drugs are more potent than H2 blockers in blocking acid secretion from the stomach.
  
  
• Who should not use these medications: Individuals who have experienced an allergic reaction to these drugs should not take them.
  
  
• Use: Proton pump inhibitors are taken orally as a once-daily dose. Pharmacists may make liquid forms of omeprazole and lansoprazole for children. Contents of esomeprazole capsules may be sprinkled on a tablespoon of applesauce immediately before administration for people who cannot swallow capsules.
  
  
• Drug or food interactions: These drugs may increase blood levels of diazepam (Valium), warfarin (Coumadin), phenytoin (Dilantin), and digoxin (Lanoxin), and may interfere with the absorption of iron products like ketoconazole (Nizoral) and itraconazole (Sporanox), thereby decreasing their effectiveness.
  
  
• Side effects: Common adverse effects include headache, diarrhea, gas, and stomach pain.