Prevacid

1. Place the tablet in an oral syringe. Follow your doctor's directions on the amount of water you need to draw up into the syringe.
2. Gently shake the syringe to dissolve the tablet.
3. Administer the solution within 15 minutes. This can be done directly, with the oral syringe, or by injecting the syringe into a nasogastric tube.
4. To be sure you have taken all of the drug, rinse out any remaining residue by refilling the syringe with water and shaking gently; then administer the remaining contents.

Alternatively, you can use Prevacid for Delayed-Release Oral Suspension. Empty the packet into 2 tablespoonfuls of water, stir well, and swallow immediately. Do not use any other liquid, and avoid chewing or crushing the granules. If any material remains in the glass, add more water, stir, and drink immediately.

If you are taking antacids for pain, you may continue to do so. You also may continue to take sucralfate (Carafate), but take your dose of Prevacid at least 30 minutes prior to the Carafate.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Keep away 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 Prevacid.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness or headache (more common in children), nausea

Why should Prevacid not be prescribed?

Do not take Prevacid if you've ever had an allergic reaction to it, or if you've ever had an allergic reaction to penicillin or macrolide antibiotics, such as clarithromycin (Biaxin) or erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, ERYC, Ery-Tab, Erythrocin, PCE).

You must also avoid Prevacid if you're taking cisapride, pimozide, astemizole, or terfenadine. Combining Prevacid with these drugs could cause dangerous--and even fatal--heartbeat irregularities.