Lansoprazole

What is Lansoprazole?

Lansoprazole is a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI), used to treat stomach ulcers, H. pylori infection, acid reflux (GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It’s an over-the-counter drug that’s safe to use in pregnancy.

How long does Lansoprazole take to work?

It takes about an hour and a half for Lansoprazole to start to work. Pills do not have immediate effects, because they have to be absorbed by the stomach, and this can take time.

Active ingredients

The active ingredient in Lansoprazole (Prevacid) is lansoprazole. Like every other PPI, Lansoprazole works by inhibiting an enzyme called H+/K+ ATPase, in the acid-secreting  cells that line the wall of the stomach. The job of this enzyme is to produce acid. Normally, this is good because it lets us consume food properly. However, in the case of an ulcer or GERD, producing acid as normal can be harmful. Lansoprazole is activated by the high acidity in the stomach, and binds itself to the enzyme, which stops it from working for a short time.

Inactive ingredients

The inactive ingredients in Lansoprazole include hydroxypropyl cellulose, low substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium carbonate, methacrylic acid copolymer, starch, talc, sugar sphere, sucrose, poylethylene glycol, poylsorbate 80 and titanium dioxide. The capsule coating contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, D&C red No.28, FD&C blue No.1 and FD&C red No. 40.

Please note: Inactive ingredients can vary between different manufacturers. 

How to take Lansoprazole

Lansoprazole comes in 15mg and 30mg doses. It should be taken twice daily, before meals. Since it’s a pill, it’s a good idea to take it with water. If the person taking it has difficulty swallowing pills, it can be broken open and consumed with juice. If you miss a dose, take Lansoprazole as soon as possible. Don’t take two at once to make up for a missed dose.

The most common side effect of Lansoprazole is diarrhea, but abdominal pain, constipation and nausea are also known to occur.

Uncommon side effects include sleepiness, dry mouth, insomnia,  blurred vision, rash or itchiness.

Rare side effects include edema (fluid buildup), photosensitivity, interstitial nephritis (inflammation of a part of the kidneys), severe skin reactions, hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and angioedema, muscle pain and blood disorders.

If you experience side effects that don’t go away, see your PCP. If you experience severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.