Frequently asked questions for Rabeprazole
Rabeprazole
Q. What is Rabeprazole used for?
Rabeprazole is used for the treatment of stomach and intestinal ulcers (gastric and duodenal ulcers), reflux esophagitis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It works by reducing the amount of acid made by your stomach and thus relieves your symptoms. Rabeprazole also prevents acidity associated with the use of painkillers and stress ulcers in critically ill people. It is also used to treat a disease associated with excessive acid production in the stomach known as Zollinger Ellison syndrome (ZES).Q. How long does it take for Rabeprazole to work?
Rabeprazole starts working within an hour of taking it and shows maximum benefit within two to four hours. You should start feeling better within 2 to 3 days but it may take up to 4 weeks to relieve your symptoms significantly.Q. What is the best time to take Rabeprazole?
It is best to take Rabeprazole before your breakfast. If you are taking two doses, take it in the morning and evening. Rabeprazole is more effective when it is taken an hour before your food.Q. Is it safe to use Rabeprazole for a long period of time?
Rabeprazole should be used for as long as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Rabeprazole is usually considered to be safe when taken in the recommended dose and duration. If Rabeprazole is used for more than 3 months, certain long-term side effects may be seen. The most important of these is low magnesium levels in your blood, making you feel tired, confused, dizzy, shaky, or dizzy. You may also have muscle twitches or irregular heartbeat. If the use is further prolonged for more than a year, you may have an increased risk of bone fractures, stomach infections, subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, osteoporosis, and vitamin B12 deficiency.Q. Does Rabeprazole cause bone problems?
Yes, long-term use of Rabeprazole can cause thinning of bones, which is called osteoporosis. Rabeprazole decreases the calcium absorption leading to calcium deficiency and increases the risk of bone fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine. Take an adequate amount of calcium in your diet or take the supplements as advised by your doctor to avoid any bone problems.Q. Can I take Rabeprazole with vitamin D?
Yes, vitamin D can be taken along with Rabeprazole. Vitamin D is generally advised to be taken as a supplement with Rabeprazole as the long-term use of Rabeprazole decreases the absorption of calcium and may lead to calcium deficiency. This can lead to osteoporosis (thinning of bones) and increase the risk of bone fractures like hip, wrist, and spine fractures. Please consult your doctor to know about ways to prevent this.Q. How is Rabeprazole useful in the treatment of H. pylori infection?
Rabeprazole is used along with antibiotics for the treatment of H.Pylori infection. It works by decreasing stomach acid volume and decreasing breakdown and washout of antibiotics leading to an increased antibiotic concentration and tissue penetration. It also helps in symptomatic relief by decreasing associated acidity, reflux, and heartburn.Q. Can long term use of Rabeprazole cause magnesium deficiency?
Long-term use of Rabeprazole can lower magnesium levels in patients taking multiple daily doses for 3 months or longer. Get your magnesium levels checked at regular intervals. Tell your doctor if you experience seizures (fits), dizziness, abnormal or fast heartbeat, jitteriness, jerking movements or shaking (tremors), muscle weakness, spasms of the hands and feet, cramps, muscle aches.Q. Can I stop taking Rabeprazole if I feel better?
No, do not stop taking Rabeprazole before completing the full course of treatment. You will start to feel better before your treatment is complete.Q. What dietary changes should I make to get relief from acidity?
Rabeprazole is best taken 1 hour before a meal. You should avoid spicy and fatty foods while taking this medicine. It also helps to cut down on caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee, and cola. Alcohol intake should also be avoided as it may worsen your symptoms.Q. Can I take alcohol with Rabeprazole?
No, alcohol intake is not advised with Rabeprazole. Alcohol itself does not affect the working of Rabeprazole, but it can increase acid production. This may further cause worsening of your symptoms.Q. Can I take antacids along with Rabeprazole?
Yes, you can take antacids along with Rabeprazole. Take it 2 hours before or after you take Rabeprazole.Q. What other lifestyle changes should I make to get maximum benefit of Rabeprazole?
You make see better results if you make certain dietary and lifestyle changes while taking Rabeprazole. Exercise regularly and eat healthily. You can consult your dietician to get a diet chart that suits you best. Eat at least 3 hours before sleeping to reduce the chances of aggravation of your symptoms at night. You should avoid spicy and fatty foods while taking this medicine. Refrain from caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee, and cola. Alcohol intake and smoking should also be avoided as they may worsen your symptoms.