Pantoprazole Sodium 20mg

Pantoprazole sodium, Protonix/Pantoloc
Description: Antacid, Proton Pump Inhibitor

CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship

Pantoprazole sodium/Protonix/Pantoloc inhibits the H+/K+ ATP pump (proton pump) in stomach parietal cells which are the cells that produce stomach acid thereby reducing its production

Pantoprazole sodium/Protonix/Pantoloc is officially indicated for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).  It may also be prescribed off-label for Barrett esophagus, duodenal/gastric ulcer, dyspepsia, Helicobacter pylori eradication, NSAID-induced ulcer prevention. (may also be used for conditions not listed)

Before starting Pantoprazole sodium/Protonix/Pantoloc make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have liver disease, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.  This medication may mask a more serious condition so regular follow up which physician is recommended if required for long periods of time.  Long term use may also be associated with decreased bone density due to decreased calcium absorption, low b12 due to decreased absorption and increased risk of intestinal infection as stomach acid can act as a defense against certain infectious agents.

20mg-80mg once or twice daily

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, swallow whole (do not split, crush or chew tablet), take consistently at same times each day usually 30 minutes before a meal unless otherwise directed, store at room temperature.

You Need to Avoid: Do not stop this medication quickly as your body has gotten used to it.  Slowly reduce the dose to prevent rebound symptoms.  Many people who stop this medication without dosage reduction become symptomatic even though their original condition may be resolved.

Side effects are uncommon with Pantoprazole sodium/Protonix/Pantoloc however some that may occur are headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting, most of which tend to happen in children over adults.

Note this is not a complete list but the most common that can occur

1. I am concerned about long term side effects, why does my physician insist I take Pantoprazole sodium/Protonix/Pantoloc?
   Leaving certain gastric conditions untreated such as GERD can result in increased risk of complications such as esophageal cancer.  Your physician has considered the risks and found them to be far less than the benefit.  If you are still concerned discuss your options with your physician however do not just stop the medication yourself.
2. My Doctor told me to avoid sodium so should I not take this?
   Based on molecular weight, pantoprazole sodium is about 5-6% sodium.  40 mg of pantoprazole sodium would then contain 2-2.4 mg of sodium.  A low sodium diet is generally under 2000mg so 2-2.4mg is negligible.