Drug Uses

Prevacid is used to reduce the acid production in the stomach. It is indicated for treatment and prevention of stomach and intestinal ulcers, erosive esophagitis (damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid), and other medical conditions associated with excessive stomach acid such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. This medicine may also be used for other purposes that are not listed in this leaflet.

How Taken

Prevacid is available as long-lasting capsules that should be taken orally. The common dosage is one capsule a day, taken before a meal. You should take the medicine exactly as prescribed. Do not take more tables than prescribed and do not take the medicine more often than instructed. You should swallow the capsules whole, do not chew, crush or divide them. If you find it difficult to swallow the capsules, open them and mix the granules inside them with applesauce. Then swallow the mixture immediately. Do not discontinue the usage of Prevacid even if you feel better and without a consultation with your doctor.

Warnings/Precautions

You should inform your doctor in you have ever had a liver disease. You may not been able to use Prevacid or your dosage may have to be adjusted, or you may have to be monitored during the treatment. Prevacid falls into the FDA pregnancy category B which means in is not expected to be harmful for a fetus. Consult your doctor before using Prevacid in case you are pregnant. Also, consult your doctor before using the medicine if you are breast feeding because it is not known if Prevacid passes into breast milk.

Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up the missed one.

Possible Side Effects

Serious adverse effects of Prevacid are not frequent. Discontinue the usage of Prevacid and search for medical help if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Other less serious adverse effects may occur. Consult your doctor but do not stop using Prevacid if you have:
-diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal pain;
-dizziness; or
-headache.
You may also experience other adverse effects that are not mentioned in this leaflet. Consult your doctor if you experience some other side effects.

Storage

Prevacid should be stored at a room temperature, and should be protected from moisture and heat.

Overdose

Immediately search for medical help if you suspect an overdose. The symptoms of an overdose of Prevacid are not known.

More Information

There are no limitations about food, drinks or activities during a treatment with Prevacid unless your doctor directed something else.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.