Aciphex

Generic Name:

• Rabeprazole

Brand Names:

• Aciphex
• Rabecid
• Pariet

This medication is available by prescription only.

Why is Aciphex prescribed?

Aciphex is used to treat conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, including ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Aciphex is used in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori.

Special precautions to follow when taking Aciphex

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Aciphex, Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix, or any other medications.

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

• Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking Aciphex, call your doctor.

What if you forget a dose?

Consult your physician before taking a missed dose. Your doctor will be able to determine if it is safe to do so, or if you should wait until your next scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible side effects of Aciphex

Aciphex may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• Headache
• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Increased or decreased appetite
• Muscle or bone pain
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

There may be other side effects from Aciphex. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

Storage conditions needed for Aciphex

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

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_{Sources: "Consumer Drug Information Sheet - Aciphex." FDA/Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. December 29. 2004. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 11 Mar 2007 <http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumerinfo/druginfo/Aciphex.HTM>}

"Drug Approvals - Aciphex." October 2002. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 11 Mar 2007 <http://www.fda.gov/cder/foi/label/2002/20973S013lbl.pdf>