Indications 

Lansoprazole manages specific gastric and esophageal conditions, including but not limited to acid reflux and ulcers. Its action involves reducing gastric acid production and alleviating symptoms such as heartburn, dysphagia, and cough. Furthermore, this pharmaceutical agent facilitates the healing of acid-induced damage to the stomach and esophagus, serves as a preventive measure against ulcer development, and may contribute to reducing the risk of esophageal cancer.  

Lansoprazole pertains to medications recognized as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Note that the use of Lansoprazole is contraindicated in children under the age of one year due to the heightened susceptibility to severe adverse effects. Patients are strongly advised to seek detailed information on its usage from their healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

Uses and Dosage 

Administer this medication orally before meals by your physician’s instructions, typically once daily. The specific dosage and duration of treatment are contingent upon your medical condition and your response to the therapy. In pediatric cases, the dosage for children is determined based on age and body weight. 

Exercise caution by handling the tablet with dry hands. Place the tablet onto your tongue and allow it to disintegrate, usually taking less than one minute. Subsequently, swallow the residual particles either with or without water. Do not attempt to crush, chew, or break the tablet or its components. 

When swallowing the tablet proves challenging, an alternative method involves dissolving it in water and consuming the resultant mixture using an oral syringe. Commence by placing a tablet into the oral syringe and drawing the appropriate quantity of water for your prescribed dose (4 milliliters for a 15-milligram tablet or 10 milliliters for a 30-milligram tablet). Gently agitate the syringe to facilitate the tablet’s disintegration, then ingest the liquid within a 15-minute. To ensure complete ingestion of the entire dose, refill the syringe with water (2 milliliters for the 15-milligram tablet or 5 milliliters for the 30-milligram tablet), agitate again, and consume the entire liquid. Do not prepare the liquid mixture in advance for future use, as this may lead to the degradation of the medication. 

For individuals administering this medication via a tube into the stomach (nasogastric tube), seek comprehensive guidance from a healthcare professional on the appropriate methods for preparation and administration. 

Consistently adhere to the medication regimen to derive maximum therapeutic benefits. To aid in adherence, take the medication simultaneously each day. Continue the prescribed course of treatment even if your symptoms improve. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects

Potential side effects of this medication include: 

• Diarrhea 
• Abdominal pain 
• Headaches 

If these effects persist or intensify, promptly inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

Severe Side Effects

Keep in mind that your physician has prescribed this medication because they have assessed that the therapeutic benefits outweigh the risk of side effects. Many individuals utilizing this medication do not experience severe side effects. 

If you encounter any severe side effects, notify your doctor immediately. These may include symptoms indicative of a low magnesium blood level, such as muscle spasms, irregular heartbeat, or seizures. Be vigilant for signs of lupus, such as a rash on the nose and cheeks or the onset or worsening of joint pain, and promptly report these to your healthcare provider. 

Cautions 

Before commencing lansoprazole treatment, disclose pertinent medical information to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any known allergies, whether to lansoprazole itself or similar medications such as dexlansoprazole, omeprazole, and pantoprazole, as well as any other allergies you may have. This medication may contain inert constituents capable of triggering allergic reactions or other adverse effects, and consulting your pharmacist can provide further insights into this matter. 

Furthermore, share your medical history with your healthcare provider or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of liver disease or lupus. 

Specific symptoms may signify underlying and more serious medical conditions. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience heartburn accompanied by lightheadedness, sweating, dizziness, or chest, jaw, arm, or shoulder pain, especially if these symptoms are accompanied by shortness of breath or unusual sweating. Unexplained weight loss should be reported promptly to a healthcare professional. 

Lastly, inform your doctor or dentist of all your products, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products, before undergoing surgical procedures. This comprehensive disclosure aids in ensuring your safety and the appropriateness of your medication regimen in the context of surgical interventions.