Pantoprazole is an organic chemical compound that is a derivative of benzimidazole. Belongs to the group of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). This drug was first introduced to the market in 1997 to reduce the production of acid in the stomach. Pantoprazole is available on the market in three forms - an oral tablet, an oral liquid suspension and an intravenous formulation.

Pantoprazole: composition

Tablet: the active substance of the drug is pantoprazole in the form of sesquihydrated sodium with excipients, depending on the type of tablet and the company that produces the drug.

Pantoprazole: action

Drugs containing pantoprazole block the proton pump in the parietal cells of the stomach. As a result, the activity of H +, K + -ATPase, i.e. the final step in the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, is inhibited. The amount and acidity of hydrochloric acid is reduced.

There is an increase in gastrin secretion in proportion to the decrease in acidity. The process of gastrin secretion is reversible, because pantoprazole binds to the proton pump beyond the level of the cell receptor, it may inhibit hydrochloric acid secretion regardless of stimulation by other substances, such as e.g. acetylcholine, histamine or gastrin.

The action range of pantoprazole depends on the dose of the drug and is associated with both basal and stimulated secretion of hydrochloric acid. Pantoprazole is rapidly absorbed and the maximum plasma concentration is achieved even at the lowest oral dose.

Pantoprazole: application

Pantoprazole has found application in the treatment of diseases of the digestive system. Primarily in the treatment of:

  • gastroesophageal reflux disease,
  • heartburn,
  • indigestion,
  • acid reflective,
  • ulceration,
  • Zollinger-Ellison syndrome,
  • other diseases related to the excessive secretion of hydrochloric acid.

Pantoprazole can be given along with antibiotics to get rid of Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria in the stomach that can cause ulcers. In addition, the drug is used to prevent ulcers caused by drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Pantoprazole: indications

It is recommended to use the drug in case of irritation of the mucosa of the digestive system or overproduction of hydrochloric acid.

Pantoprazole: contraindications

Do not use the drug if you are allergic to pantoprazole and to any of the modules listed in the composition of the drug. It is not recommended to use the drug if the patient is taking HIV protease inhibitors and if the patient is planning to undergo a special blood test package, incl. checking the concentration of chromogranin A.

Pantoprazole: dosage

The drug should be used as described in the patient information leaflet or according to specific guidelines and recommendations of a doctor or pharmacist. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

The usual dose of pantoprazole is 20 to 40 mg once daily. It is best to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.

Pantoprazole: precautions

Special care should be taken when using pantoprazole in patients:

  • with a history of gastric ulcer,
  • after gastrointestinal surgery,
  • with liver or kidney problems.

In patients with severe hepatic impairment, the liver enzymes should be monitored regularly during treatment with pantoprazole.

In the event of an increase in the level of liver enzymes, treatment should be discontinued. Long-term use of pantoprazole may lead to an increased risk of certain complications, such as Increased risk of fracture in the hip, wrist or spine, especially if you are elderly or have other risk factors.

The drug may contribute to a vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause nerve damage and worsen brain function. Additionally, pantoprazole can increase the amount of bacteria normally present in the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Taking pantoprazole may lead to a slightly increased risk of gastrointestinal infections such asSalmonellaorCampylobacter . The use of pantoprazole may alleviate the symptoms of a severe disease and delay its diagnosis.

Pantoprazole: side effects

Pantoprazole can primarily cause:

  • allergic reactions (rash, fever, joint pain, systemic lupus erythematosus),
  • epigastric pain,
  • feeling bloated,
  • gas in the stomach,
  • diarrhea,
  • constipation,
  • blood in stool,
  • headaches.

In addition, the drug's side effects include low levels of magnesiumcausing muscle spasms, weakness, fatigue, irritability and changes in heart rhythm.

Pantoprazole: interactions with other drugs and diseases

In order to avoid undesirable ailments, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications that are currently or recently used, as well as about medications that the patient is going to use.

You should also inform the doctor about the current he alth condition, about any diseases or additional ailments we are struggling with. Pantoprazole may interact with several medications (HIV protease inhibitors, methotrexate, ketoconazole, warfarin) and herbal supplements.

This drug has the ability to absorb active substances whose bioavailability depends on the pH in the stomach.

Pantoprazole: drug storage

The drug should be stored in a suitable place that is invisible and inaccessible to children. Store in a dry place below 30 ° C in the original packaging. You should not use the medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the package.

The expiry date is the last day of the month.

Pantoprazole and pregnancy and breastfeeding

Before taking the drug, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The use of pantoprazole during pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally not recommended.

Category:

He alth