Uses of Prevacid

Prevacid is a drug formulated to treat and prevent stomach and intestinal ulcers, erosive esophagitis, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and other conditions caused by excessive stomach acid. It does this by reducing the amount of acid being produced in the stomach.

Prevacid comes in the form of an extended-release capsule. So, it should be taken orally, swallowed whole and not chewed or crushed. If ever you have problems swallowing the capsule, you can open Prevacid and sprinkle its granules on applesauce and then immediately swallow. The granules should not be chewed or crushed. The heartburn drug is usually taken once daily, before eating a meal. Take Prevacid exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Safety Guidelines & Possible Side Effects

If you have liver disease, discuss with your doctor whether or not you should take Prevacid. If your doctor advises you to proceed, he may also advise dosage adjustment and monitoring during the course of your treatment. Prevacid is not expected to be harmful to your unborn baby. However, it is still best to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant or breastfeeding. It has not yet been determined if Prevacid passed on to breast milk.

It is not common for a patient to experience serious side effects after taking Prevacid. However, an allergic reaction may occur. Seek emergency medical help and immediately discontinue taking Prevacid when this happens. There are also other milder side effects that are more common. These include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache and nausea. Call your doctor when you experience any of these symptoms. Keep on taking Prevacid unless told by yor doctor to stop.

Missed Dose

Do not double dose to make up for the one you missed. Only take the missed dose if you remember it soon enough after your scheduled dose. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose then skip the missed dose and proceed with the rest of the schedule.

Drug Storage

Store the heartburn drug at room temperature. Keep it away from heat and moisture.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose then seek emergency medical help. Unfortunately, the symptoms of Prevacid overdose are still not known.

Other Information

You are not restricted from certain activities, beverages or food while being treated with Prevacid unless your doctor specifically says so.