Prevacid
Uses:
Prevacid blocks acid in the stomach. It is used to treat ulcers, esophagitis
and conditions due to high acid secretion.
How to Take:
Prevacid is taken by mouth usually once a day one hour before a meal as
directed. In certain conditions the medication may be prescribed twice
a day. Swallow the capsules whole. Do not open, crush or chew them unless
you have esophageal (throat) problems or have difficulty swallowing in
which case you may take the drug after opening the capsules and sprinkling
over soft, easy-to-swallow foods like applesauce and swallowing small
amounts without chewing. Take this as prescribed. Do not increase your
dose, take this more often than directed or stop taking this without first
consulting your doctor. Significantly less drug will be absorbed if taken
after a meal rather than before eating.
Side Effects:
Nausea/stomach upset may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, inform
your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop diarrhea,
or stomach pain. An allergic reaction to Prevacid is unlikely, but seek
immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction
include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing. If you
notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions:
Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing liver disease or if you
have any allergies. Prevacid should be used only if clearly needed during
pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small
amounts of Prevacid are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before
breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you
may take including sucralfate, iron, theophylline, ampicillin, digoxin
or ketoconazole. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or
emergency room immediately.
Notes:
For best results, Prevacid is used along with lifestyle changes such as
stress reduction, exercise and dietary changes. Talk to your health care
professional about changes you may benefit from. Laboratory and/or medical
tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it
is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and
resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose
to catch up.
Storage:
Store Prevacid at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to
30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other
healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the
use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult
your healthcare professional before taking the product.
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