Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole)

What is Dexilant?

Kapidex is a medicine that helps in the treatment of heartburn.

What is Dexilant used for?

Kapidex is indicated for the treatment of heartburn caused by GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is also used to heal erosive esophagitis, i.e. damage to esophagus from stomach acid.

How does Dexilant work?

Kapidex works by decreasing the amount of acid produced naturally in the stomach.

How to use Dexilant

Kapidex should be used exactly in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Do not take the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed.

When treating heartburn, the medicine is usually given for one month. However, while being used for erosive esophagitis, it may be given for several months.

Each dose should be taken with a glass full of water. It can be taken with or without food. The delayed-release capsules should not be crushed, broken or opened. They should be swallowed whole.

If you have difficulty in swallowing a delayed-release capsule whole, you can open the capsule, sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce and swallow the mixture immediately. The mixture should not be saved for later use. Discard empty capsule.

Dexilant warnings and precautions

Kapidex is not prescribed to patients allergic to dexlansoprazole.

Before using Kapidex tell your doctor if you are allergic to any other drug or are suffering from liver disease.

Although Kapidex is not likely to cause harm to afetus, pregnant females should consult their doctors before taking this drug. The effect of Kapidex on breast milk or on a nursing baby is yet unknown. Therefore, lactating women are advised to take this medicine only after taking doctor’s permission. Also, your doctor must be informed if you plan pregnancy during treatment.

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

If you have missed a Kapidex dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed one and follow your medicinal schedule. Taking an extra dose just to catch up is not recommended.

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

Although an overdose of Kapidex is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms, if you have taken an overdose of Kapidex, consult your doctor immediately.

Dexilant interactions

Before taking Kapidex, inform your doctor if you are taking ampicillin, atazanavir, clopidogrel, digoxin, ketoconazole, warfarin (blood thinner), or iron supplements.

Apart from these drugs there may be other drugs which may interact with Kapidex. Therefore, it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs that you are taking, before using Kapidex. Also, tell him about any herbal medicines, or mineral or vitamin supplements that you have been using.

Do not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Dexilant side effects

Side effects from Kapidex include hives, chest pain, breathing difficulty, swelling of face, tongue, lips, or throat; fast or pounding heartbeats, stomach ache; or worsening heartburn. If you get any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away.

Nausea, vomiting, gas, stomach pain, diarrhea, sneezing, or stuffy nose are some less serious side effects of Kapidex.

There may be other side effects of this medicine. Tell your doctor as soon as you witness any unusual symptoms after taking a Kapidex dose.