Pantoprazole (Protonix): Comprehensive Medication Guide

Names of Medication

The medication is commonly known by its brand name, Protonix, and its generic name is Pantoprazole.

Pharmacologic category

Pantoprazole belongs to the pharmacologic category of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). Other medications in this category include:
Omeprazole (Prilosec)
Esomeprazole (Nexium)
Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
Rabeprazole (Aciphex)
Dexlansoprazole (Dexilant)

Dosing

Pantoprazole is used to treat various diseases in adults. Never adjust the dose of the medication without speaking with your doctor first. Below are the typical dosages used for each condition:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

40 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks.

Peptic ulcer disease

40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks.

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

Initial dose is typically 40 mg twice daily, but can be increased based on individual patient needs.

Erosive esophagitis

40 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks.

Nonerosive reflux disease

20 mg once daily.

Gastric ulcers

40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks.

Duodenal ulcers

40 mg once daily for 2-4 weeks.

Helicobacter pylori infection

40 mg twice daily for 10-14 days, typically used in combination with antibiotics.

Stress ulcers

40 mg once daily.

Gastrinomas

Initial dose is typically 40 mg twice daily, but can be increased based on individual patient needs.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Pantoprazole is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
Delayed-release tablets: 20 mg and 40 mg
Delayed-release oral suspension: 40 mg
Injection: 40 mg

Administration Instructions

Pantoprazole can be taken with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed. The oral suspension should be taken approximately 30 minutes before a meal.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Like all medications, Pantoprazole can cause side effects. Below are some common and less common side effects:

Headache (common)

Headache can occur (up to 1 in 10 users). This is thought to be due to the changes in stomach acidity and its impact on the body’s pain receptors.

Diarrhea and nausea (common)

Diarrhea and nausea can occur due to changes in the digestive process as a result of reduced stomach acid.

Abdominal pain (common)

Abdominal pain can occur due to the alteration of stomach acid balance.

Rash or itching (less common)

Rashes or itching may occur due to an allergic reaction to the medication.

Dizziness and sleepiness (rare)

Dizziness and sleepiness are rare but can occur as the body adjusts to the medication.

Contraindications to taking Pantoprazole

A contraindication refers to a condition or factor that serves as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm it would cause the patient. Below are some contraindications for Pantoprazole:

Known hypersensitivity to Pantoprazole

If a patient has known hypersensitivity to Pantoprazole or other proton pump inhibitors, Pantoprazole should not be used. This is because it can trigger an allergic reaction, which can range from mild to severe.

Severe liver disease

Pantoprazole is metabolized in the liver. In patients with severe liver disease, the drug may not be metabolized and eliminated from the body properly, leading to potential harmful effects.

Concomitant use with rilpivirine-containing products

Rilpivirine is a medication used to treat HIV. Pantoprazole can decrease the absorption of rilpivirine, reducing its effectiveness.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Pantoprazole can interact with certain other medications. Here are some significant drug to drug interactions:
Rilpivirine (Edurant, Complera, Odefsey, Juluca)
Methotrexate (Trexall, Rasuvo, Otrexup)
Warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Clopidogrel (Plavix)

Pantoprazole in Pregnancy

There is limited data on the use of Pantoprazole during pregnancy. However, studies do not indicate an increased risk of major birth defects with the use of proton pump inhibitors. Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Pantoprazole while Breastfeeding

Pantoprazole has been shown to pass into breast milk, but in small amounts. The impact on a nursing infant is unknown. Consult with your healthcare provider for advice if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The cost of Pantoprazole can vary depending on the pharmacy and location. As of this writing, the estimated cost for a 30-day supply of 40mg Pantoprazole without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, is approximately $15 to $30. Remember that prices are subject to change based on negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.