Description
Indications
Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) is a delayed-release oral medication indicated to treat all grades of erosive esophagitis or EE. It also relieves heartburn associated with symptomatic non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. It may also reduce other symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing and persistent cough.
This is available in Dexilant 60 mg and 30 mg delayed-release capsules.
This substituted benzimidazole works by suppressing gastric acid secretion through the specific inhibition of the hydrogen potassium – ATPase at the secretory surface of the gastric parietal cell. It blocks the final step of acid production, especially in the stomach, which helps heal acid reflux & damage, prevents ulcers, and prevents cancer of the esophagus.
How to Use Dexilant
Before starting to take Dexilant, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take any medication unless you have understood all the information regarding it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for further medical advice or additional details.
This tablet is only meant to be taken by mouth. You may administer your dose with or without a meal. Swallow the tablet entirely and drink a glass of water. Avoid splitting, crushing, or chewing these delayed-release capsules, as doing so can release the drug all at once.
To avoid skipping medications, make a dosage regimen. This is usually prescribed once daily. If you have been prescribed sucralfate, take this drug at least 30 minutes prior to sucralfate. Further, do not increase or decrease your Dexilant dosage or alter your length of treatment because it is based on your response to medication and overall medical condition.
Dexilant Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Stomach pain
-Diarrhea
-Gas
Severe Side Effects:
-Low level of magnesium in the blood (seizures, irregular heartbeat, muscle spasm)
-Lupus (worsening joint pain, rash on your cheeks and nose)
-C. difficile infection (abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, blood/mucus in the stool, fever)
-Vitamin B12 deficiency (numbness or tingling of the hands and feet, sore tongue, unusual weakness)
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Dexilant.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and consult your doctor or any healthcare professional.
Precautions / Warnings
Do not take this oral prescription if you have a known allergy to dexlansoprazole or any inactive ingredients each capsule contains. Always lookout for some signs of a severe allergic reaction, including trouble breathing, red patches on the skin, hives or itchiness, swelling of the face & neck, and severe dizziness. If this occurs, immediately stop taking this drug and seek emergency medical help.
Certain diseases or disorders may greatly affect how your body will respond to the treatment. Disclose complete medical history to your physician, especially any history of lupus, liver disease, and obesity. Because of possible drug interactions, it is also important to discuss all the prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
This type of drug may increase the risk of bone fractures, most especially if used longer and in higher doses. You may be prescribed calcium supplements and vitamin D supplements. You should also talk to your healthcare provider regarding ways to avoid bone fractures.
There are still no available definitive clinical trials to show if Dexilant can cause harm to unborn and breastfed babies. Therefore, pregnant moms and those who are breastfeeding should take this oral drug only if highly needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Dexilant used for?
This PPI is used for erosive esophagitis and GERD.
2. Is Dexilant safe for long-term use?
This medication is usually prescribed to adults for 6 months.
3. Can children use Dexilant?
It is safe for children 12 years of age and above to take this oral drug.
4. Which is better, Dexilant vs Nexium?
The former may work faster than the latter.
5. How much do Dexilant capsules cost?
You may check the Dexilant price from this page.