Gastrointestinal // Pantoprazole (Protonix)

Protonix is used for:
Short-term treatment (7 to 10 days) of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) who have a history of irritation of the esophagus. It may be used for conditions that cause your body to make too much stomach acid (eg, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.Protonix is a proton pump inhibitor. It works by decreasing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

Protonix is used for:
Short-term treatment (7 to 10 days) of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) who have a history of irritation of the esophagus. It may be used for conditions that cause your body to make too much stomach acid (eg, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.Protonix is a proton pump inhibitor. It works by decreasing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

How to use Protonix:
Use Protonix as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

    * Protonix is usually given as an injection at your doctor"s office, hospital, or clinic. If you will be using Protonix at home, a health care provider will teach you how to use it. Be sure you understand how to use Protonix . Follow the procedures you are taught when you use a dose. Contact your health care provider if you have any questions.
    * Do not use Protonix if it contains particles, is cloudy or discolored, or if the vial is cracked or damaged.
    * If you also take an imidazole antifungal (eg, ketoconazole), take it at least 2 hours before taking Protonix.
    * Keep this product, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and pets. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Ask your health care provider how to dispose of these materials after use. Follow all local rules for disposal.
    * Protonix should only be used for a short time (7 to 10 days), until you are able to take medicine by mouth. Discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.
    * If you miss a dose of Protonix , use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Protonix.

Possible side effects of Protonix:
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

    * Diarrhea; headache; nausea; stomach pain; vomiting.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

    * Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; unusual hoarseness); chest pain; dark urine; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or sore throat; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual tiredness; vision changes; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions or need medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor or health care provider.

Proper storage of Protonix:
Protonix is usually handled and stored by a health care provider. If you are using Protonix at home, store it as directed by your pharmacist or health care provider. Keep Protonix , as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and away from pets.