RABEPRAZOL

This medicine contains the active ingredient Rabeprazole which belongs to a group of medicines called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These medicines reduce the production of gastric acid. Rabeprazole is prescribed for the treatment of reflux (stomach acid goes into gullet causing heartburn, pain and inflammation), stomach and intestines ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (growth in pancreas), heartburn and acid regurgitation, infections caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori.

Is Rabeprazole suitable for me?

Rabeprazole is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to Rabeprazole, other PPIs or any of the other ingredients of this medicine
• if you are pregnant or breast-feeding

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant or breast-feeding
• have serious liver or kidney problems
• have a stomach tumor
• are taking atazanavir (a drug used to treat HIV)

Rabeprazole interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Rabeprazole?

This medicine is available in form of a gastro-resistant tablet.

You should take Rabeprazole exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The dose will be prescribed according to your condition and needs. The usual dose is 10 or 20 mg taken once a day. For the treatment of Helicobacter pylori, you will be prescribed two 20 mg capsules per day (one is taken in the morning, the other in the evening). Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose. Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Rabeprazole side effects?

Like all medicines Rabeprazole can cause side effects, including:

Common:

• Infection
• Insomnia (difficult sleeping)
• Headaches, dizziness
• Cough, sore throat, rhinitis (runny nose)
• Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea,
• Abdominal pain, constipation
• Flatulence (wind)
• Weakness, flu like syndrome

 Uncommon:

• Nervousness or drowsiness
• Bronchitis, sinusitis
• Dyspepsia (indigestion), dry mouth,
• Skin rash, redness of the skin
• Muscle or joint pain, leg cramps
• Urinary tract infection
• Chest pain
• Chills, fever
• Changes in liver function test values

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.