AcipHex

--Storage instructions...

AcipHex should be stored at room temperature and protected from moisture.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking AcipHex. Headache is the most common side effect of AcipHex, occurring in two people out of 100.

Why should AcipHex not be prescribed?

If AcipHex gives you an allergic reaction, you will not be able to use it.

Special warnings about AcipHex

If you have stomach ulcers caused by the H. pylori bacteria, AcipHex could make the condition slightly worse. The doctor may order a test for H. pylori before prescribing this drug. If you test positive, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics along with AcipHex.

AcipHex has not been tested in children under 18 years of age.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking AcipHex

If AcipHex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increase, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining AcipHex with the following:

Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of AcipHex during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. The drug may appear in breast milk and should not be taken while you're breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The usual dose is 20 milligrams once a day for 4 to 8 weeks. For patients who have not healed after 8 weeks, the doctor may prescribe an additional 8-week course of AcipHex therapy.

To Relieve Symptoms or Prevent a Relapse of GERD

The usual dose is 20 milligrams once a day.

Duodenal Ulcer

The usual dose is 20 milligrams taken once daily after the morning meal for a period of up to 4 weeks. Some people may require an additional 4 weeks of treatment.