Prevacid (Lansoprazole)
Medication information written by Dr. Patricia Weiser, Pharm.D
Updated - February 8, 2021
Prevacid (Lansoprazole) Medication Information
Uses
Prevacid (lansoprazole) belongs to a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs work by reducing the amount of acid in your stomach.
Excess stomach acid can cause a burning sensation known as heartburn. Over time, excess stomach acid can damage the stomach lining or esophagus. Medications that reduce stomach acid can heal this damage and relieve heartburn symptoms.
Prevacid is prescribed for use in adults, children, and infants for many conditions related to stomach acid. A few examples include:
- Acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
- Heal or prevent ulcers of the stomach or esophagus
- H. Pylori stomach infection, along with antibiotics
Dosage
Prevacid (lansoprazole) comes in the following dosage forms and strengths:
- Capsule: 15 mg and 30 mg
- Solutab (disintegrating tablets): 15 mg and 30 mg
Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, before meals.
Precautions
Prevacid may not be safe for people with the following medical history or conditions:
- Kidney problems including acute interstitial nephritis
- Problems with diarrhea
- Bone fractures
- Specific forms of Lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disorder)
- Low magnesium or B12 levels in your blood
- Suspected neuroendocrine tumors
- Phenylketonuria
- Pregnant or plan to become pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Prior allergic reactions to any ingredients of Prevacid (lansoprazole)
Side Effects
Like all medications, Prevacid may cause side effects. The most common side effects are mild, but severe side effects are also possible.
Common side effects of Prevacid may include:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Constipation
Long-term use of Lansoprazole (greater than 3 months to over 3 years) may increase the risk of potentially serious side effects:
- Low vitamin B12 levels
- Low magnesium levels
- Bone fractures
- Stomach growths
Your doctor will prescribe Prevacid if its benefits outweigh your risk for severe side effects. For more information about the side effects of Prevacid, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Interactions
Some potential drug interactions might cause harmful effects with Prevacid (lansoprazole). A few examples include:
- Antiretroviral drugs (drugs used to treat HIV)
- Warfarin
- Methotrexate
- Digoxin
- Iron
- Ketoconazole
- Clarithromycin
- Tacrolimus
- Rifampin
- St. John’s Wort
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
Storage
Store Prevacid at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
Pharmacists Tips
- Take Prevacid at least 30 minutes before a meal. Prevacid won’t work if you take it after you eat or while you’re eating.
- If you miss a dose of Prevacid, take it as soon as possible. If it’s almost time for your next dose, don’t take two doses of Prevacid at the same time to “catch up.”
- Do not chew or crush Prevacid—Swallow whole.
Lansoprazole FAQs
Can I open Prevacid capsules if I have trouble swallowing them?
If you have trouble swallowing Prevacid capsules, you can open a capsule and sprinkle the granule contents into one of the following liquids or foods right before taking it. Prevacid granules may be sprinkled on applesauce, Ensure, pudding, cottage cheese, yogurt, strained pears. Or they may be stirred into apple, orange, or tomato juice and taken immediately.
I’ve seen Prevacid sold over-the-counter. Is there a difference between Prevacid 24HR and prescription Prevacid?
The over-the-counter (OTC) Prevacid 24HR contains the same active ingredient as prescription (Rx) Prevacid. Prevacid 24HR OTC is only available in a 15 mg capsule and is only approved for adults with frequent heartburn. Rx Prevacid is available in multiple strengths and forms and is approved for several stomach acid conditions in adults and children.
Related Drugs
References
- Prevacid Prescribing Information. Lexington, MA. Takeda Pharmaceuticals America, Inc.; 2017. https://general.takedapharm.com/prevacidpi/ Accessed January 29, 2021.
Author: Dr. Patricia Weiser, PharmD
Patricia Weiser, PharmD, is a licensed pharmacist and medical writer. She has clinical experience in community and hospital pharmacy. Patricia is a 2007 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh. She resides in Pennsylvania with her husband and two daughters.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.