Why is Aciphex prescribed?

Aciphex is used to treat conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, including ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Aciphex is in a class of medications called proton-pump inhibitors. It works by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach.

How should Aciphex be used?

Aciphex comes as a delayed-release (long-acting) tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day for 4 to 8 weeks, but it is sometimes taken a for longer time. When taken for ulcers, Aciphex should be taken after the morning meal. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Aciphex exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking Aciphex,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Aciphex, lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole (Protonix), or any other medications.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), digoxin (Lanoxin), and ketoconazole (Nizoral). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Aciphex, call your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can Aciphex cause?

Aciphex may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• headache
• upset stomach
• diarrhea
• stomach pain
• vomiting
• constipation
• dry mouth
• increased or decreased appetite
• muscle or bone pain
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

There may be other side effects from rabeprazole. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking Aciphex.

What storage conditions are needed for Aciphex?

Keep Rabeprazole in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.