Rabeprazole

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

Popular brand names:

Pariet, Rabemed

Drug group:

Anti-ulcer drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Rabeprazole is used in the management of the following conditions:

• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) – where stomach acid rises into the oesophagus, commonly known as heartburn
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome – a condition where the stomach produces large quantities of acid which leads to ulceration
• Active duodenal/peptic ulcers – reduces stomach acid, giving ulcers time to heal
• Used in combination with antibiotics to eradicate Helicobacter pylori – the bacteria often involved in the development of peptic ulcers
• To prevent the gastrointestinal side effects associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in patients who need to take these regularly

How does it work?

Rabeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor - it inhibits the secretion of gastric acid, which results in a less acidic stomach environment.

How should it be used?

• Tablets should be taken before food and should be swallowed whole (do not crush or chew)
• Avoid spicy foods and alcohol as these may exacerbate the underlying condition

What is the typical dosage?

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

• Tablets taken once daily, generally in the morning
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: 60–120mg daily; Others: 10–20mg daily

How quickly will it start to work?

2–3 hours, pain should improve in 2–3 days      

How long will the effects last?

Up to 48 hours                
       

When should I stop using it?

Can be safely stopped as soon as no longer needed       
                

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Long-term use of rabeprazole may increase the risk of: certain intestinal infections (Salmonella and Clostridium difficile infections), and hip fractures in women 

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: headache, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, flatulence, insomnia
• Less common: cough, bronchitis, sinusitis
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: severe side effects

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: allergy to other proton pump inhibitors, history of liver disease
• Other medicines: itraconazole, ketoconazole, digoxin, clopidogrel, warfarin, atazanavir
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause drowsiness
• Alcohol: Avoid, alcohol irritates the stomach, which can lead to worsening symptoms