Detailed Drug Information:

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Rabeprazole is in a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPI) which block the production of acid by the stomach. Other drugs in the same class includelansoprazole lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole (Protonix), and esomeprazole (Nexium). Proton pump inhibitors are used for the treatment of conditions such as ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome that are caused by stomach acid. Rabeprazole, like other proton-pump inhibitors, blocks the enzyme in the wall of the stomach that makes acid. By blocking the enzyme, the production of acid is decreased, and this allows the stomach and esophagus to heal.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: No.

PRESCRIPTION: Yes.

PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 20 mg

STORAGE: Store at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F). Keep away from moisture.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Rabeprazole is used for treating ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

DOSING: For ulcers and GERD the recommended dose for adults is 20 mg daily for 4-8 weeks. For the management of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, the starting dose for adults is 60 mg daily, and the dose is adjusted based on response. Doses of 100 mg per day and 60 mg twice daily have been used in some patients with Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

It is generally recommended that tablets be taken approximately 30 minutes prior to meals for maximum effectiveness. Tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, split or chewed.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Rabeprazole is less likely than omeprazole to interact with other drugs.

The absorption of certain drugs may be affected by stomach acidity, and, as a result, rabeprazole and other PPIs that reduce stomach acid also reduce the absorption and concentration in blood of ketoconazole (Nizoral) and increase the absorption and concentration in blood of digoxin (Lanoxin). This may lead to reduced effectiveness of ketoconazole or increased digoxin toxicity, respectively.

PREGNANCY: Use in pregnant women has not been adequately evaluated.

NURSING MOTHERS: Rabeprazole has not been studied in nursing women.

SIDE EFFECTS: Rabeprazole like other PPIs is well-tolerated. The most common side effects are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, rash and headaches. Dizziness, nervousness, abnormal heartbeat, muscle pain, weakness, leg cramps and water retention rarely occur.