Where is Rabeprazole Sodium used?
Rabeprazole Sodium is an FDA-approved prescription used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease and peptic ulcers. This is in the class of medications called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) that decrease the amount of acid produced in your stomach. This relieves symptoms and helps heal acid damage to the stomach and esophagus.
How does Rabeprazole Sodium work?
Rabeprazole Sodium acts in the stomach that lessens the production of stomach acid. Stomach acid is produced in the stomach as a normal part of the digestive process. Usually, the linings of the stomach and duodenum are protected by a layer that resists attack from this acid. If this layer is damaged or large amounts of stomach acid are formed, an ulcer can develop on the lining of the stomach.
- For the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, this medication reduces the production of stomach acid. Hence, it also reduces the amount of acid in the stomach and duodenum.
- In peptic ulcers, Rabeprazole Sodium stops excess acid flowing back into the food pipe. This allows the esophagus to heal reflux esophagitis and allows the healing of peptic ulcers.
You should start to feel better within 2 to 3 days. But it may take up to 4 weeks for this medication to work properly so you may still have some symptoms during this time.
How is Rabeprazole Sodium taken?
The prescribed dosage for this medication is based on your medical condition, age, and response to it. You must take the right dose, not more or less. You should not stop taking this medication quickly without the consent of your doctor.
Rabeprazole Sodium is usually taken 1 to 2 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Each dose may be taken with or without a meal. Each tablet will be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Remember to take it at the same time and in the same way each day.
What are the possible side effects of Rabeprazole Sodium?
- Upset stomach
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Back pain
- Dry mouth
Warnings and Precautions
- This medication, if taken in high doses for longer than a year may slightly increase the risk of breaking a bone in your hip or spine.
- This should be used with caution in people with decreased liver function. As well as in people with osteoporosis or who are at risk of osteoporosis, this drug should be used carefully.
- As Rabeprazole Sodium lessens the acidity in the stomach, it may lead to a slightly increased risk of getting stomach infection.
- Before using Rabeprazole Sodium, tell your doctor if you ever had any medical history especially of lupus and liver disease.
- In people having long-term treatment with this product, this may decrease the absorption of vitamin B12 from the gut into the bloodstream. Ask your doctor for information and advice about this.
- Rabeprazole Sodium is not recommended for use in children, pregnant, and breastfeeding women.
- If you ever had an allergic reaction to this drug, let your doctor know right away. Tell also if you have any allergies. This product may contain an inactive ingredient that causes an allergic reaction.
