Do you also often get gastritis? Do you often suffer from things like heartburn, stomach acid, and heartburn? When you go to see a doctor at such times, you may have been given a pill that you can easily dissolve by placing it on your tongue and drinking it. This is convenient for many people, because you can take it without water. So, today we will talk about this special medicine called Lansoprazole, which is used by many people.
Simply put, what is Lansoprazole?
Lansoprazole is a type of medicine that controls and reduces the production of acid in our stomach. Medically speaking, these belong to a group of drugs called PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors) . Imagine that there are small 'pumps' inside our stomach that produce acid. What this medicine does is temporarily stop the functioning of those 'pumps'. Due to this, the unnecessary production of acid in the stomach is reduced.
Doctors mainly recommend this medicine for the following conditions:
- Gastritis: This means inflammation and discomfort in the stomach.
- Stomach Ulcers: Heal ulcers in the stomach or small intestine.
- GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease): This is simply what we call the acid in the stomach coming back up into the throat, that is, up the esophagus. This is what causes heartburn.
- Control other conditions that cause excess stomach acid.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important for your doctor to know your complete medical history before prescribing this medication. This information will help determine whether this medication is right for you. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions.
- If you have any liver disease .
- If you have been diagnosed with low levels of calcium, magnesium, or potassium in your blood.
- If you have the autoimmune disease lupus .
- If you have a genetic condition called Phenylketonuria (as these effervescent tablets may contain phenylalanine).
- If you have allergies to Lansoprazole or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant , or are hoping to become pregnant in the near future.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
It is very important for your own safety to tell the doctor without hiding this information.
How exactly do you use this dissolving pill?
This is not a pill that you swallow with water like a regular pill. There is a special way to use it. Following it exactly is very important for the medicine to work.
1. Dry your hands thoroughly: Your hands should be dry and not wet before handling the tablet.
2. Only take the pill when it's time: Keep the pill in its sealed package until you're ready to take it. Don't take it out in advance and leave it out.
3. Carefully remove the tablet: Carefully open the pack and remove the tablet. If the tablet is broken, crushed, or scratched, do not use it. Throw it away and get a new one.
4. Place on tongue: Place the tablet directly on your tongue. It will begin to dissolve on its own in a few seconds.
5. Swallow after dissolving: Swallow the tablet with saliva after it has completely dissolved. No water is needed.
6. Most important: Never break, crush, or chew this pill. Doing so may make it less effective.
Always take your medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes, at the right time. Do not stop taking your medicine until your doctor tells you to stop.
What if I overdose?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, don't panic. But don't take it lightly either. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Important: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not give this medicine to someone else who has the same symptoms as you. It may be dangerous.
What if I forget to take my medicine?
If you miss a dose, don't worry. Take the dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose when you remember, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take two doses at once for any reason.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Lansoprazole is a drug that can interact with some other medications. Therefore, it is essential to inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications.
| Drug category | Examples and descriptions |
|---|---|
| Drugs that should never be taken with Lansoprazole | |
| Drugs used to treat HIV | Atazanavir, Nelfinavir |
| If you are taking these medications, be sure to tell your doctor before taking Lansoprazole. | |
| Antibiotics | Ampicillin |
| Medications for heart disease | Digoxin |
| Diuretics | Drugs that remove water from the body |
| Medications to prevent blood clots | Warfarin |
| Medicines for fungal infections | Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Voriconazole |
| Other medications | Sucralfate, Theophylline, Iron salts |
This list is not complete. Tell your doctor about any over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or even traditional medicines you are taking.
Possible side effects of taking Lansoprazole
Like any medicine, Lansoprazole can cause side effects in some people, although not everybody gets them.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. Difficulty breathing. Go to a hospital immediately. |
| Effects on the kidneys | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. Tell your doctor immediately. |
| Decreased magnesium levels | Muscle twitching or pain, unusual weakness, fast or irregular heartbeat, tremors. |
| Decreased vitamin B12 levels | Numbness, pain, muscle weakness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. (This may occur with long-term use) |
| Skin blisters or redness | A rash-like condition that occurs on the cheeks or hands when exposed to the sun, with redness, blistering, and peeling of the skin. |
| Severe diarrhea | Watery diarrhea and fever that lasts more than 2 days. Tell your doctor immediately. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Constipation | Dry stomach. |
| Diarrhea | Flatulence (not serious). |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
Be careful with long-term use!
Using this medicine for a long time (months, years) may pose some risks.
- Weakened bones: Bone strength decreases, increasing the risk of fractures.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency: As we discussed above, the body's absorption of vitamin B12 may be reduced.
- Stomach Polyps: Small growths that can develop in the stomach. These are usually not cancerous.
Therefore, do not continue to use this medicine without your doctor's advice. See your doctor at regular intervals to discuss your condition.
Take-Home Message
- Lansoprazole is a medicine that reduces stomach acid and is used to treat conditions such as gastritis and heartburn.
- This tablet can be taken without water. However, it should not be broken, crushed, or chewed. Place it on the tongue and let it dissolve.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and your medical conditions.
- If you experience any serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions, severe diarrhea, or swelling of the limbs, seek medical advice immediately.
- Avoid using this medicine for a long time without your doctor's advice.
- This medicine is for you only. Never give it to others.
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