Drug Name

Aciphex (Rabeprazole)

Drug Uses

Aciphex decreases the amount of acid produced in your stomach.

How Taken

Use Aciphex as directed by your doctor.

• Aciphex may be taken with or without food.
• Swallow the tablets whole. Do not break, chew, crush, or split the tablets. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablets, consult your doctor or pharmacist for other suggestions on how to take the medicine.
• You should not take Aciphex within 2 hours of an imidazole (eg, ketoconazole). This will help minimize the drug interaction between these 2 medicines.

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

Drug Class and Mechanism

Aciphex is used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or heartburn), and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Aciphex and are taking 1 dose daily, take the missed dose if you remember the same day. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Aciphex at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in a tightly closed container. Brief periods at temperatures of 59 to 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) are permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Aciphex out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Aciphex if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Aciphex.

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Important :

• Aciphex may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sun lamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Aciphex . Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period.
• Lab tests may be performed to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
• If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Aciphex during pregnancy. It is unknown if Aciphex is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Aciphex.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• headache.

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

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue).

More Information

Aciphex is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.