Indications 

Prevacid DR (delayed-release) is an oral medication primarily used to treat and prevent stomach and intestinal ulcers, as well as damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid. It can help to heal acid damage to the stomach and esophagus, and may help prevent cancer of the esophagus. 

The capsules contains the active ingredient lansoprazole, which belongs to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). It works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, which helps to relieve symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion.  

Use and Dosage 

Take Prevacid DR only as directed by your doctor, as the dosage will depend on the condition being treated and the individual patient. Prevacid DR comes in the form of capsules to take it orally once a day, before a meal. The capsules should be swallowed whole with water and should not be crushed or split. It may take several days to weeks for Prevacid DR to fully heal an ulcer or damage to the esophagus.  

Stopping Prevacid DR abruptly may cause rebound acid hypersecretion, which can cause symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion. Talk to your doctor before stopping the capsules. They may recommend gradually reducing the dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms. 

If you miss a dose of Prevacid DR, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects

• Constipation 
• Diarrhea 
• Dizziness 
• Headache 
• Nausea 

Serious Side Effects 

• Blistering, peeling, or bleeding skin 
• Blood in urine 
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing 
• Dizziness 
• Excessive tiredness 
• Fast, or pounding heartbeat 
• Fatigue 
• Fever 
• Fever that does not go away 
• Hoarseness 
• Increased or decreased urination 
• Irregular 
• Joint pain 
• Lightheadedness 
• Loss of appetite 
• Muscle spasms 
• Nausea 
• New or worsening joint pain; rash on cheeks or arms that is sensitive to sunlight 
• Rash 
• Rash; hives; itching; swelling of the eyes, face, lips, mouth, throat, or tongue 
• Seizures 
• Severe diarrhea with watery stools 
• Shortness of breath; fever; flu-like symptoms 
• Sores on the lips, nose, mouth, or genital 
• Stomach pain 
• Swollen glands 
• Uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body 

Cautions 

• Prevacid DR may cause side effects such as headache, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, and constipation. 
• Serious side effects of Lansoprazole may include kidney problems, liver problems, and bone fractures. 
• Lansoprazole may interact with other medications, so inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. 
• Prevacid DR may not be safe for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions. Inform your doctor of any medical conditions you have before taking the capsule. 
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should inform their doctor before taking Prevacid DR. 
• Prevacid DR may increase the risk of infections such as pneumonia and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Long-term use of the capsules may increase the risk of bone fractures, especially in older adults. 
• Lansoprazole can decrease the absorption of vitamin B12 and magnesium, leading to deficiencies in these nutrients. 
• Lansoprazole can increase the risk of stomach cancer, especially in patients who have a history of atrophic gastritis or Helicobacter pylori infection. 
• Prevacid DR may mask symptoms of other medical conditions, so inform your doctor of any new or worsening symptoms while taking the capsules. 
• Prevacid DR should not be used in children under the age of 1 year. 
• Lansoprazole should be used with caution in patients who have a history of liver disease or who are taking medications that may affect liver function. 
• Prevacid DR should be used with caution in patients who have a history of osteoporosis or who are at risk of developing osteoporosis. 
• If you suspect an overdose of Prevacid DR, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include confusion, drowsiness, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, and seizures.