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Brand Name: Prevacid
Generic Name: Lansoprazole
(lan soe' pra zole)
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Why is prevacid prescribed?
Prevacid (Omeprazole) is used to treat ulcers; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the food pipe (esophagus); and conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Prevacid is used in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori.
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How should prevacid be used properly?
Omeprazole (Prevacid) comes as a delayed-release (long-acting) capsule. It is usually taken once a day before a meal. When taken in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori.
Swallow the capsules whole; do not chew or crush them.
If you have difficulty swallowing capsules, you may add the contents of an omeprazole capsule to applesauce. Place one tablespoon of applesauce in an empty bowl. Open the capsule and carefully empty all the pellets inside the capsule onto the applesauce. Mix the pellets with the applesauce and swallow immediately with a glass of cool water. The applesauce should not be hot and should be soft enough to be swallowed without chewing. Do not chew or crush the pellets. Do not store the applesauce/pellet mixture for future use.
Continue to take omeprazole even if you feel well. Do not stop taking omeprazole without talking to your doctor.
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What are the common uses for prevacid?
Omeprazole is also used sometimes to treat laryngitis. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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What special precautions should I follow when using prevacid?
Before taking omeprazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to omeprazole or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: ampicillin (Omnipen, Polycillin, Totacillin); anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune); diazepam (Valium); disulfiram (Antabuse); ketoconazole (Nizoral); medications for anxiety and seizures; phenytoin (Dilantin); sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins containing iron. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking omeprazole, call your doctor.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking prevacid?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of prevacid?
You should take the missed dose of prevacid just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can prevacid cause?
Side effects from isotretinoin are common.Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- stomach pain
- constipation
- dizziness
- mild rash
- diarrhea
- cough
Omeprazole may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
» topWhat storage conditions are needed for prevacid?
Always keep the prevacid in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or a prevacid overdose?
In case of an prevacid overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
Symptoms of overdose may include:
- rapid or pounding heartbeat
- flushing (feeling of warmth)
- upset stomach
- blurred vision
- drowsiness
- dry mouth
- headache
- confusion
- sweating
- vomiting
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What other information should I know about prevacid?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medicine. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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