| Pharmacy Drug Brand Name: | Protonix |
| Active Ingredient(s): | pantoprazole |
| Strength(s) / Dose(s): | 40 mg |
| Delivery / Dosage Form(s): | Delayed-release tablet |
| Company Manufacturer Name: | Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories |
| Availability / Prescription: | Prescription only |
| Date Approved by FDA *: | February 2, 2000 |
* Approval by the FDA does not necessarily mean that this drug is available for consumers at this time.
What is Protonix used for?
Protonix is used for the short-term (up to 8 weeks) healing of a gradual breakdown (erosion) or sore (ulceration) in the esophagus which may be caused by the backward flow of gastric acid from the stomach into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux disease or damage or GERD). For people who have not healed after 8 weeks of treatment, an additional 8 week course of Protonix may be considered.
General Information about Protonix:
Protonix does not work for everyone. Improvement in your symptoms does not prevent you from having other stomach-related medical conditions.
What should I tell my doctor or health care (healthcare) provider?
- Review all medications that you are taking with your doctor or health care (healthcare) provider, including those that you take without a prescription. Because Protonix lowers the level of acid in your stomach, Protonix may interfere with the absorption of drugs such as ketoconazole, ampicillin, and iron salts
- Tell your doctor or health care (healthcare) provider if you are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of Protonix? (This is not a comprehensive list of possible side effects assosciated with Protonix. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide expert advice on the possible side effects of this drug.)
Protonix is generally well tolerated. The most common side effect is headache. Your health care (healthcare) provider can discuss with you a complete list of possible side effects.