Lansoporazole (Prevacid) Drug for Ulcer Disease: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Lansoporazole
(Prevacid, United States and Canada)

Use:

Lansoporazole or Prevacid is used to reduce acid in the stomach especially in conditions like ulcers.

How It Works:

Lansoporazole or Prevacid inhibits something known as proton pumps which are responsible for the production of acid in the stomach. As well, Lansoporazole or Prevacid may have some anti bacterial action against Helicobacter pylori, the organism thought to be involved in ulcer formation.
Lansoporazole or Prevacid's acid suppressing action begins one to two hours after the first dose which is slightly faster than omeprazole. After stopping Lansoporazole or Prevacid, acid secretion returns to normal in two to four days.

Side Effects:

Lansoporazole or Prevacid is generally well tolerated. Abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea have been reported.

Cautions for People:

People may be concerned about Lansoporazole or Prevacid's, and even omeprazole's, link to gastric tumours. Lansoporazole or Prevacid given to rats in high doses for over two years, showed some evidence of these tumours. However, the doses were much higher than average doses in people. It is thought that these tumours are related to prolonged suppression of acid.

Drug Interactions:

Lansoporazole or Prevacid's absorption is delayed by sucralfate, and theophylline levels may be effected by Lansoporazole or Prevacid.

Further Reading:

Med Letter 1995;37:63
Drugs 1994;48:404
J Clin Gastroenterol 1995:20Suppl:S7

Added to Virtual Drugstore August 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.