Protonix (Pantoprazole)

Common uses

This medicine is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive esophagitis, or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. This medicine works by blocking acid production in the stomach. It may be used in combination with antibiotics including amoxicillin or clarithromycin to treat certain types of ulcers. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking itraconazole, ketoconazole, or voriconazole. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using Protonix.

Directions

Follow the directions for using Protonix provided by your doctor. Swallow whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing. This medicine may be taken with antacids if your doctor has instructed you to take antacids. Do not miss any doses. Store Protonix at room temperature, away from heat and light.

For best results, continue taking Protonix for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. If you miss a dose of Protonix, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using Protonix. This medicine may affect the results of certain lab tests (e.g., false positive urine screen for thc). Make sure laboratory personnel and your doctors know you use Protonix. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Protonix during pregnancy. It is unknown if Protonix is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Protonix, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include headache, dizziness, diarrhea, or nausea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience swelling of hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; difficulty swallowing or breathing; hoarseness; or rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Additional information

If you are taking Protonix for gastric ulcers or reflux disease, your symptoms should improve within 4 to 8 weeks. If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, contact your doctor.

Do not share Protonix with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use Protonix for other health conditions. Keep Protonix out of the reach of children and pets. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with Protonix. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.