Prevacid (Lansoprazole)

Prevacid is a medicine called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It reduces the amount of acid in your stomach. Prevacid is used in adults for the short-term treatment of stomach and duodenal ulcers (ulcer in the upper intestine), gastroesophageal reflux disease, and erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus [tube that connects your mouth and stomach] due to excess acid). Prevacid is also used to prevent a relapse of duodenal ulcer or esophagitis; to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers in people on continuous therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (such as ibuprofen or naproxen); for long-term treatment of conditions where your stomach makes too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome; and with other medicines to eliminate the bacteria that often causes ulcers (known as Helicobacter pylori). In addition, Prevacid is used for the short-term treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease and erosive esophagitis in children and adolescents.

Prevacid can cause low magnesium levels in your body. Tell your doctor immediately if you have seizures, dizziness, abnormal or fast heartbeat, jitteriness, jerking movements or shaking, muscle weakness, spasms of your hands and feet, cramps or muscle aches, or spasm of your voice box. Tell your doctor if you experience any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction with Prevacid (such as rash, face swelling, throat tightness, or difficulty breathing). People who are taking multiple daily doses of Prevacid for a long period of time may have an increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine. If you have a condition known as phenylketonuria (an inability to process phenylalanine, a protein in your body), be aware that Prevacid SoluTab orally disintegrating tablets contain phenylalanine.