Drug Name

Aciphex (Rabeprazole)

Drug Uses

Aciphex is used for treating heartburn or irritation of the esophagus caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It may be used for short-term treatment of ulcers of the small intestine. It may be used with certain antibiotics to treat ulcers of the small intestine and to help prevent them from coming back. It may be used to treat conditions that cause your body to make too much stomach acid (eg, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How to use

Use Aciphex as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Take Aciphex by mouth with or without food.
• Swallow Aciphex whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing.
• You may take antacids while you are taking Aciphex if you are directed to do so by your doctor.
• If you also take an imidazole antifungal (eg, ketoconazole), take it at least 2 hours before taking Aciphex .
• If you also take sucralfate, take Aciphex at least 30 minutes before taking sucralfate.
• Continue to take Aciphex even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Aciphex is a proton pump inhibitor. It works by decreasing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
Treating heartburn or irritation of the esophagus caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It may be used for short-term treatment of ulcers of the small intestine. It may be used with certain antibiotics to treat ulcers of the small intestine and to help prevent them from coming back. It may be used to treat conditions that cause your body to make too much stomach acid (eg, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Aciphex , 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.

Storage

Store Aciphex at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in a tightly closed container. Brief periods at temperatures of 59 to 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) are permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Aciphex out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Aciphex if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Aciphex.

• Aciphex may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sun lamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Aciphex . Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period.
• Lab tests may be performed to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
• If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Aciphex during pregnancy. It is unknown if Aciphex is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Aciphex.

Possible Side Effects

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

• Diarrhea; headache.

• Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; unusual hoarseness); chest pain; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or sore throat; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; severe or persistent stomach pain; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual tiredness; vision changes.

More Information

Aciphex is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.