FAQs related to Lansoprazole 30 Mg Cap
What is Lansoprazole? What is it used for?
Lansoprazole belongs to a class of medicines known as proton pump inhibitors. Lansoprazole is used for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease (gastric and duodenal ulcers), reflux esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is also used to treat a disease associated with excessive acid production in the stomach known as Zollinger Ellison syndrome (ZES). It works by reducing the amount of acid made by your stomach.
What are the long term side effects of Lansoprazole?
If Lansoprazole is used for more than 3 months, certain long term side effects may be seen. The most important of these is low magnesium levels in your blood which may make you feel tired, confused, dizzy, shaky or dizzy. You may also have muscle twitches or irregular heartbeat. If the use is further prolonged for more than a year, you may have an increased risk of bone fractures (due to decreased calcium levels in the blood), especially hip, wrist or spine, stomach infections and vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency can make you anemic, as a result of which you may feel more tired, weak, or pale. Additionally you may also have palpitations, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, indigestion, loss of appetite, flatulence (gas) or nerve problems such as numbness, tingling and problem in walking.
How is Lansoprazole given through the nasogastric tube?
Your doctor or nurse will show you the correct way of giving Lansoprazole through the nasogastric (NG) tube. Open the Lansoprazole capsule and empty the granules into a syringe. Mix the contents with apple juice in the syringe and attach it to the NG tube and give directly into the stomach. Once given, flush the NG tube with more apple juice to clear the tube.
Should Lansoprazole be taken empty stomach or with food?
Usually, Lansoprazole is taken once a day, first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach. If you take Lansoprazole twice a day, take 1 dose in the morning and 1 dose in the evening. The tablets should be swallowed whole (remember not be chewed or crushed) and taken at least 1 hour before a meal with some water.
Can Lansoprazole cause diarrhea?
Yes, Lansoprazole may cause diarrhea as a side effect in some people. This is usually not bothersome, but if you experience persistent watery stools that do not go away, along with stomach cramps and fever, get medical help immediately. These symptoms are most likely because of the overgrowth of harmful bacteria called C. difficile and the diarrhea is known as Clostridium difficileu2013associated diarrhea (CDAD). Use of Lansoprazole lowers the natural stomach acid which normally helps to kill bacteria and this can cause uncontrollable diarrhea associated with stomach cramps and fever.
Can I take alcohol with Lansoprazole?
No, alcohol intake is not advised with Lansoprazole. Alcohol itself does not affect the working of Lansoprazole, but it can increase the acid production. This may further cause worsening of your symptoms.
Is Lansoprazole safe to use?
Yes, Lansoprazole is relatively safe to use. Most of the people who take Lansoprazole do not get a side effect. It is advised to be taken as directed by the doctor for maximum benefit.
Can I take antacids along with Lansoprazole?
Yes, you can take antacids along with Lansoprazole. Take it 2 hours before or after you take Lansoprazole.
Can I stop taking Lansoprazole if I feel better?
If you have been taking Lansoprazole for a long time, stopping it abruptly may lead to increased acid production, thereby worsening your symptoms. Therefore, you must discuss any dose changes or if you wish to come off Lansoprazole.
Can Lansoprazole cause weight gain?
Weight gain is reported in less than 1% of the patients taking Lansoprazole but the exact cause is unknown. One possible explanation is higher food intake once the reflux symptoms are relieved. Lifestyle modifications such as proper diet and exercise can help to prevent weight gain.
While taking Lansoprazole, which foods should be avoided?
You should preferably avoid foods that cause acidity and heartburn as they will only worsen your condition, for example: fried or spicy food, butter, oil, and juices, caffeinated drinks like cola or tea, drinks from citrus fruits like lemon water or orange juice and alcohol.
Is Lansoprazole used for children?
Yes, Lansoprazole is used in the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and erosive gastritis in children. However, the safety and effectiveness of Lansoprazole are established only in children between 1 to 17 years of age.