IMPORTANT NOTE The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

TITLE LANSOPRAZOLE DELAYED RELEASE - ORAL

HOW TO PRONOUNCE (lan-SO-pruh-zole)

COMMON BRAND NAMES Prevacid

USES This medication is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat various acid-related stomach and/or throat (esophagus) problems (e.g., acid reflux or GERD, ulcers, erosive esophagitis, Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome). Lansoprazole works by blocking acid production in the stomach. Lansoprazole may also be used to treat ulcers due to the long-term use of certain drugs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs) for pain or swelling. In addition, this medication may be used in combination with antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin, clarithromycin) to treat certain types of ulcers.

HOW TO TAKE Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily, before a meal; or as directed by your doctor. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Swallow the medication whole. If you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, the capsule may be opened and the contents sprinkled onto soft food (e.g., applesauce, cottage cheese, yogurt), or emptied into a small amount (2 oz or 60 ml) of juice and taken as directed. Rinse the container with an additional small amount of juice and drink the contents to make sure the entire dose is taken. Do not chew the food/medication mixture or prepare a supply in advance; this may destroy the drug and/or increase side effects. Potent acid-reducing medicines such as lansoprazole can decrease the effectiveness of sucralfate, as well as other drugs such as the antifungals ketoconazole and itraconazole. If instructed to take any of these drugs while taking lansoprazole, consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the proper timing of each dose. For example, if you are instructed to take sucralfate in addition to lansoprazole, it is best to take the lansoprazole at least 30 minutes before the sucralfate. Antacids may be taken along with this medication, if needed. The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Continue to take this medication for the prescribed length of treatment even if you are feeling better.

SIDE EFFECTS Constipation or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: stomach pain. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS Before taking lansoprazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heartburn combined with lightheadedness or sweating or dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain especially with shortness of breath, pain spreading to arms or neck or shoulders, unexplained weight loss, liver problems, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors). This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended.