Pantoprazole

What is Pantoprazole?

Pantoprazole is a treatment for acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and acid reflux, it’s also the active ingredient that’s found in branded Protonix.

Acid reflux happens when the sphincter muscle between the stomach and the esophagus becomes weak or fails to close tightly, causing food and stomach acids to flow back (reflux) into the esophagus. When this happens on a regular basis it’s known as GERD.

Pantoprazole reduces the amount of acid in your stomach which prevents any from traveling into the esophagus and throat.

Pantoprazole is available as a gastro-resistant tablet (meaning that it passes through the stomach and into the intestine where it can work more effectively) and comes in two dosage strengths: 20mg and 40mg.

How does Pantoprazole work?

Acid reflux and GERD are common and frustrating conditions that can have a negative effect on quality of life.

The lining of the stomach is made up of cells that contain proton pumps that ‘pump’ acid into the stomach to help with the digestion of food. In some cases, the cells produce too much acid and this can cause irritation to the stomach and other parts of the digestive system. Excess acid made by the cells can flow out of the stomach and into the esophagus and throat. This acid is what causes the unpleasant feeling of heartburn.

If left untreated, acid reflux can damage the esophagus and throat. Common conditions caused by ongoing acid reflux, or GERD, are esophagitis and laryngitis.

Pantoprazole contains a proton pump inhibitor that prevents the cells from producing excess acid and relieves the short term symptoms of acid reflux and prevents the long-term effects too.^[1]

What doses of Pantoprazole are there?

Pantoprazole tablets come in two doses: 20mg and 40mg. The usual dose for acid reflux is one 20mg tablet a day. This dose usually works to relieve symptoms within 2-4 weeks.

When taken to treat GERD, the length of treatment is longer. A doctor will usually prescribe a higher dose of 40mg per day at the beginning of treatment to treat the effects of acid reflux. Once the throat and stomach have healed, the dose is likely to be reduced to 20mg per day to control the production of acid and prevent a recurrence of symptoms.

Pantoprazole is also suitable for those with existing liver problems, although it’s advised that the dose should be limited to 20mg per day.

How to take Pantoprazole

Always take Pantoprazole exactly as your physician tells you to.

Taking Pantoprazole

• Take the tablets one hour before a meal.
• Swallow the tablets whole, don’t crush or chew them.
• Take them with water.

Recommended doses

To treat acid reflux and GERD

• One 20mg tablet per day for 2-4 weeks.
• After initial treatment, occasional recurring symptoms can be controlled by taking one 20mg tablet per day as required.
• If symptoms persist, the daily dose can be increased to 40mg per day until the effects heal.
• One 20mg tablet a day is then taken to control the acid reflux and prevent a recurrence of symptoms.

To prevent duodenal ulcers caused by NSAIDs

• One 20mg tablet per day.

Patients with liver problems

• Should not exceed one 20mg dose per day.

How long does it take Pantoprazole to work?

Pantoprazole is highly effective and starts to offer relief after a single dose as it takes less than three hours for it to fully reach the bloodstream. The usual course of treatment lasts four weeks, and over 98% of people experience significant relief from symptoms in this time.^[1]

What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Pantoprazole?

If you forget to take a dose of Pantoprazole, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, just skip the one you missed and continue as normal. Never take a double dose of Pantoprazole.

If you take too much Pantoprazole seek urgent medical assistance.