What is Aciphex?

Aciphex (brand name rabeprazole) works by decreasing the amount of acid being produced in the stomach that can enter the esophagus and cause GERD.

Aciphex is a prescription drug that is used for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other specific health conditions that are caused by increased production of stomach acid, including such health problems as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Aciphex is also applied for increasing the effects of erosive esophagitis treatment. Sometimes Aciphex is also used in conjunction with specific antibiotics for treating and preventing gastric ulcer induced by helicobacter pylori infections.

You should avoid taking Aciphex if you have had an allergic reaction to any of its components, especially rabeprazole or to any similar medications including lansoprazole, esomeprazole, omeprazole, or pantoprazole.

Some health problems connected with increased acid production in the stomach are treated and prevented by combining Aciphex with other medications (often antibiotics). In order to gain maximum effectiveness of the drug you should follow your doctor's prescriptions concerning the dosage of the drug. Consult with the medication guide or ask a pharmacist if you don't understand how to use the drug. Do not adjust the dosage or take the drug for longer/shorter periods of time unless your doctor tells you to.

Do not stop taking Aciphex even if you notice substantial improvements with your symptoms. The drug should be taken throughout the entire duration of the course, as prescribed by your doctor.

Aciphex is typically prescribed for a period of 4 to 8 weeks, not more. Your physician may prescribe you with a repeated course of the drug after some time in order to achieve the required healing effects. When treating H. pylori infections, Aciphex is usually prescribed only for a week. You should follow your doctor's instructions in the prescription label.

Aciphex should be taken with a full glass of water, whether on an empty stomach, during or after a meal. Never chew, break or crush the tablet of Aciphex, take it as a whole. The protective coating of the pill promotes gradual release of the contents of the tablets into the body. Crushing the tablet may lead to unpleasant reactions and even overdose. Seek immediate medical assistance if you suspect an overdose of Aciphex. Store the medication in a dark, dry place at room temperature.

What causes GERD?

Do you know what causes GERD and which conditions raise the risk of having this health problem? There are different factors that may influence the development of GERD and knowing them is very important for searching the right kind of treatment. Learn more about the causes of GERD here!