Aciphex (Rabeprazole)

What is Aciphex?

Aciphex has an active ingredient called rabeprazole sodium which is a substituted benzimidazole that inhibits gastric acid secretion. This PPI (Proton Pump Inhibitor) reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

What is Aciphex used for?

Aciphex is indicated for the treatment of acid-related stomach or intestinal problems. It is used to treat symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and other acid-related conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, erosive esophagitis, etc. Reducing excessive stomach acid can help relieve symptoms like heatburn, swallowing trouble, sleep problems, and persistent cough. The medicine also prevents serious acid damage to the digestive system. When given along with an antibiotic, the medicine helps prevent gastric ulcers caused by infection with helicobacter pylori or H.pylori.

How does Aciphex work?

Aciphex works by blocking the production of acids in stomach.

How to use Aciphex

Aciphex should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Do not use it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended.

Aciphex is usually taken once daily with a full glass of water. The drug is to be used for 4 to 8 weeks only. It can be taken with or without food. Do not chew, crush or split the medicine. Swallow it. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

Aciphex is needed for only 7 days while treating H. pylori infection. Adhere to your doctor’s instructions and follow the diet schedule given to you.

Aciphex warnings and precautions

Before using Aciphex, tell your doctor if you are allergic to rabeprazole, omeprazole (Zegerid, Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), pantoprazole (Protonix) or esomeprazole (Nexium).

Prior to taking Aciphex, tell your doctor if you have severe liver disease. You may need a dose adjustment. Follow your diet schedule strictly.

Pregnant women should not use the drug without consulting their doctors as it can cause harm to an unborn baby. If you plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor in advance. It is not known if the drug passes into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Thus, it is advisable that lactating females consult their doctors before starting to take the medicine.

Do not start or stop any medicine or Aciphex without consulting your doctor. The treatment might take a few months. Continue using the medicine.

What do I do if I have missed a Aciphex dose?

If you have missed your Aciphex dose, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Aciphex overdose?

If you have taken an Aciphex overdose, you should seek medical attention.

Aciphex interactions

Before taking Aciphex, consult your doctor if you are taking drugs like clopidogrel (Plavix), a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin), cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Gengraf, Neoral), digoxin (Lanoxin, digitalis), atazanavir (Reyataz), or ketoconazole (Nizoral). Such drugs can interact with Aciphex.

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use including mineral and vitamin supplements that you may be using. Also, do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Aciphex side effects

Aciphex side effects include hives, breathing trouble, headache, upset stomach, diarrhea, nervousness, insomnia, skin rash, itching; swelling of face, tongue, lips or throat, and other allergic reactions. If you get any of these side effects after using Aciphex, contact your doctor right away.