Prevacid| lansoprazole

Drug Class: Proton pump inhibitor
Manufacturer: Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Approval Date: May 1995

What is Prevacid and how does it work

Prevacid is an oral medication that reduces acid production in the stomach by blocking the enzyme (proton pump) in the stomach wall that produces acid. Excessive amounts of acid can damage the stomach, esophagus and duodenum, producing inflammation and ulcers. Prevacid prevents ulcers, reduces symptoms of ulcers (pain, bleeding, burning, weight loss, vomiting) and helps ulcers heal by reducing the production of acid.

What does Prevacid treat

• Ulcer in the stomach and duodenum (small intestine)
• Ulcers caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Eradication of H. Pylori
• Erosive esophagitis
• Heartburn (Prevacid 24HR)

How effective is Prevacid

• Duodenal Ulcer: 89.4%, 91.7%, and 89% healing rate for the 15, 30, and 60 mg administered daily. In comparison the healing rate for placebo was 46.1%.
• Duodenal Ulcer: 92.3%, 80.3% healing rate for 15 and 30 mg doses administered once daily. In comparison the healing rate for ranitidine was 70.5%.
• Stomach Ulcer: 92.2%, 96.8%, and 93.2% healing rate for 15, 30, and 60 mg of Prevacid. In comparison the healing rate for placebo was 76.7%.
• Prevacid 24HR for heartburn may take 1 to 4 days for full effect, although some people see complete symptom relief within 24 hours. 

What are interesting facts about Prevacid

• Prevacid is administered once daily
• Less likely than Prilosec to cause drug interactions
• Blocks the proton pump in the stomach (some acid reducers block the H2 receptor)
• Prevacid OTC (Prevacid 24hr) is available for heartburn

What is the dosage of Prevacid and administration

Recommended dose is 15-180 mg daily depending on the condition that is being treated.

What are side effects of Prevacid

Common: Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain

Serious: Bone fractures, low magnesium levels

Prevacid drug interactions

• Warfarin
• Digoxin
• Ketoconazole
• Iron Salts
• Reyataz

What is the cost of Prevacid

$7-$15 per tablet.

How to obtain prescription assistance

For Prevacid prescription assistance visit Takeda prescription program.

References: Prevacid FDA Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.

Last Update: 7/2013

The material on this site is for information only and it is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider.

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