What is Aciphex or generic Rabeprazole?

Aciphex or generic Rabeprazole is a prescription medication used in the management of a number of conditions that may result from an excess of stomach acid. Both Aciphex and Aciphex generics belong to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors.

Proton pump inhibitors work by limiting the activity of glands found in the lining of the stomach. These glands play a role in producing stomach acid. When their activity is reduced, so is the amount of stomach acid that a person's body produces.

People who are dealing with conditions related to an excess of stomach acid may be prescribed Aciphex or generic Rabeprazole. One of the most common conditions in this category is gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. People may also be prescribed Aciphex if they're dealing with lesions in the esophagus and/or stomach or for other conditions as determined by a medical professional.

Conditions treated by Aciphex or generic Rabeprazole

What is Aciphex used for? As noted above, Aciphex or generic Rabeprazole may be used in the management of several conditions that stem from an excess of stomach acid.

For instance, Aciphex (particularly Aciphex 20) may be used for the short-term treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. It has been shown to be effective for both erosive GERD (in which erosion to the esophagus is present) and symptomatic GERD, which is characterized by heartburn symptoms (such as belching) but not erosion to the esophagus.

Aciphex may also be used to support the healing of duodenal ulcers, gastric ulcers, or erosive esophagitis, which is damage to the esophagus that results from excessive stomach acid.

In conjunction with antibiotics, Aciphex or generic Rabeprazole may be prescribed to help eliminate a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori from the stomachs of people who have peptic ulcers.

Aciphex is sometimes used in the treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare disorder which involves the formation of tumors in the duodenum and pancreas. If left unchecked, these tumors contribute to an overproduction of stomach acid.

Under the recommendation of a medical professional, Aciphex may also be used in the management of other conditions not listed here.

What to know before using Aciphex or generic Rabeprazole

Prior to using Aciphex or generic Rabeprazole, keep the following in mind:

• Tell your doctor about any and all medical conditions you have as well as any medications or supplements you already take. This will help protect you from negative interactions, as Aciphex may interfere with the activity of many medications.
• Be aware that research into the use of Aciphex while pregnant or breastfeeding is extremely limited. It's generally not advised to use Aciphex medication under these conditions.
• Make sure to follow dosing instructions carefully. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Depending on the condition being treated, there may be different guidelines regarding whether or not to take Aciphex medication with food.
• If you miss a dose and it's not close to the time of your next dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's near the time of your next dose, simply take the next dose and then continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses. In the event of overdose, immediately contact the Poison Help line or seek medical attention.
• It's important to commit to taking Aciphex for the full length of your prescription, even if your symptoms start to clear up before then.Be aware that lifestyle changes—such as avoiding foods that trigger GERD—may also assist in the management of your condition and shorten the amount of time you need to take Aciphex or Rabeprazole generic.

Possible side effects of Aciphex or generic Rabeprazole

Possible Aciphex side effects or Rabeprazole side effects include:

• Allergic reactions
• Constipation or diarrheaConvulsions
• Exacerbation of the symptoms of lupus
• Stomach pain
• HeadachesKidney problems
• Nausea or vomiting
• Magnesium deficiency - Can lead to symptoms including dizziness, irregular heart rate, muscle cramps, and shaking

Additionally, long-term use of Aciphex may result in the development of stomach growths (called fundic gland polyps), a vitamin B-12 deficiency, and/or a higher risk of broken bones (particularly in the hip, spine, or wrist).

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Consult a medical professional if you experience these or any other side effects.