Lansoprazole

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Lancap, Lansoloc, Lanzor

Drug group:

Anti-ulcer drug

Prescription needed?

Yes (except for Lansoloc OTC)

What does it do?

Lansoprazole is used in the treatment of:

• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD): a chronic condition where stomach acid rises into the oesophagus
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: excess stomach acid production leading to ulceration
• Peptic ulcers: used either alone, or in combination with a 7-day course of antibiotics (triple therapy, to eradicate Helicobacter pylori bacteria, the main cause of peptic ulcers)

How does it work?

Lansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor - it reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach, thereby preventing or treating ulceration. 

How should it be used?

• Lansoprazole may mask the symptoms of stomach cancer - a gastro-scope may be required before treatment is started to first rule out the possibility of this disease
• Best taken in the morning before food
• Avoid spicy/acidic foods and alcohol – these may aggravate the underlying condition

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Peptic ulcer/gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: 30mg taken once daily
• NSAID-induced ulcer/acid-related dyspepsia: 15–30mg taken once daily
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: initially 60mg daily, dose adjusted according to response
• Pylori-associated ulcer: 30mg in the morning, and 30mg in the evening

How quickly will it start to work?

1–2 hours                 
          

How long will the effects last?

24 hours

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor.    
             

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Long-term use may increase the risk of: certain intestinal infections (such as Salmonella and Clostridium difficile), hip fractures in women, low blood magnesium levels.  

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: headache, dizziness, diarrhoea, constipation, flatulence, nausea, vomiting
• Less common: fatigue or malaise
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash or itching, sore throat/mouth/tongue

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver problems
• Other medicines: Antifungals (ketoconazole/flucanazole), theophylline, antacids, sucralfate, digoxin, cilostazol, tacrolimus, atazanavir
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol: Avoid, alcohol irritates the stomach