What are lansoprazole capsules?

LANSOPRAZOLE (Prevacid®) prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It reduces symptoms and prevents injury to the esophagus or stomach in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or ulcers. Lansoprazole is also useful in conditions that produce too much stomach acid such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Generic lansoprazole capsules are not yet available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to lansoprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water; do not crush or chew. This medicine works best if taken on an empty stomach.Take it 30 to 60 minutes before food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a tablespoon of any of the following foods: applesauce, Ensure® pudding, cottage cheese, yogurt, or strained pears. Do not crush the contents of the capsule into the food. Swallow the dose immediately after preparing it; do not chew. Follow with a drink of water.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with lansoprazole?

• ampicillin
• bisacodyl
• delavirdine
• digoxin
• fluvoxamine
• iron salts
• itraconazole
• ketoconazole
• sucralfate
• theophylline
• voriconazole

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from taking lansoprazole?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible.

Rare or uncommon:

• dark yellow or brown urine
• fever or sore throat
• unusual skin rash, blistering, or peeling
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• yellowing of the eyes or skin
• vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• abdominal pain
• diarrhea or constipation
• headache
• nausea

What should I watch for while taking lansoprazole?

It can take several days of therapy with lansoprazole before your stomach pains improve. Check with your prescriber or health care professional if your condition does not improve, or if it gets worse. You can take antacids for the occasional relief of pain unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you otherwise.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.