Protonix

The active ingredient in Protonix is pantoprazole sodium. It is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) meaning that it decreases the amount of stomach acid being produced. Overproduction of stomach acid can be irritating to the stomach lining if there are ulcers or to the esophagus making PPIs like Protonix a suitable treatment. It falls within the same class of other PPIs that also decrease the amount of acid such as omeprazole, lansoprazole, and dexlansoprazole. Depending on the condition being treated, it may be intended for long-term or short-term treatment. Protonix is also used in pediatric patients 5 years of age and older with erosive esophagitis.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Protonix. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Protonix:

• Typically, Protonix is taken by mouth once daily for most conditions. For Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, it may be taken by mouth up to twice a day. Talk to your healthcare provider about the duration of treatment. They will know what is best to recommend for you.
• Take pantoprazole or Protonix at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before eating for best results.
• Protonix is available in two dosage forms: delayed-release tablets and delayed oral suspension.
• If using the delayed-release tablets, take the tablets whole and do not crush, chew, or split pantoprazole tablets.
• If using the delayed-release oral suspension, take in a teaspoonful of applesauce or apple juice. If using apple juice, ensure the granules are fully dissolved before taking them. If using applesauce, sprinkle granules onto the applesauce and do not chew the granules. After taking, follow with sips of water to ensure the granules reach the stomach. For stability of the medication, do not take the suspension in any other liquid or food.
• Antacids may be used while taking Protonix.
• Do not use in children under 5 years of age.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Protonix seen in clinical trials include:

• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Gas
• Dizziness

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Protonix. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of kidney problems (acute tubulointerstitial nephritis) such as blood in the urine or a decrease in the total amount you urinate per day
• Signs of a bacterial infection in the intestines such as severe and persistent stomach pain, fever, and frequent watery stools
• Signs of an autoimmune disorder called lupus erythematosus such as new or worsening joint pain and a rash on the cheeks or arms that worsens with sun exposure
• Stomach growths or fundic gland polyps
• Signs of a severe skin reaction such as a skin rash with blistering, peeling, and or bleeding along with other symptoms such as fever, chills, aches, shortness of breath, and swelling of glands in the neck. These symptoms could be signs of life-threatening skin reactions such as SJS, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), DRESS, or AGEP.

The following serious side effects are more common with long-term use of Protonix:

• Bone fractures (especially in the wrist, hip, or spine). There is an increased risk of this side effect in people with osteoporosis who receive a high dose of Protonix for a prolonged period of time.
• Signs of hypomagnesemia or low magnesium levels such as seizures, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, jitteriness, aches, and muscle spasms affecting the hands, feet, or voice. This risk may be increased if Protonix is used alongside other medications such as digoxin or diuretics.
• Signs of low vitamin B12 levels such as shortness of breath, lightheadedness, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, pale skin, fatigue, mood changes, tingling or numbness in the arms and legs

These are not all of the possible side effects of Protonix. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Protonix, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Mineral deficiencies, especially low magnesium, calcium, or potassium
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Do not use Protonix if you have:

• A known allergic reaction to substituted benzimidazoles or any of the other ingredients found in Protonix delayed-release tablets or Protonix delayed-release oral suspension
• Are using a medication with rilpivirine

It takes a few hours for Protonix to reach peak levels in the body which is when you can expect an effect of pantoprazole. However, maximal results in reducing symptoms may take a few days of consistent daily use.

When Protonix is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Antiretrovirals such as rilpivirine, atazanavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir, etc.
• Warfarin
• Methotrexate
• Iron
• Erlotinib
• Dasatinib
• Nilotinib
• Mycophenolate mofetil
• Ketoconazole
• Itraconazole

Protonix is available as a delayed-release tablet in the following strengths:

• 20 mg
• 40 mg

Protonix is also available as a delayed-release oral suspension in the following strengths:

• 40 mg

Protonix should be stored at room temperature, away from light, excess heat, excess cold, and out of reach of children.

Protonix is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Wyeth Pharmaceuticals.

Yes, there is a generic version of the brand name Protonix available.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Protonix. Over time, stomach acid secretion will typically return to baseline after discontinuation.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Protonix use in pregnant women. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Protonix can pass into the breast milk but it is not known what effect it can have on your baby or milk production. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.