What is Dexlansoprazole?

Dexlansoprazole is the proton pump inhibitor which is mainly available for the treatment of certain stomach and oesophagus problems.

This majorly includes acid reflux (GERD) and erosive esophagitis.

It is available in oral delayed-release capsules or also orally disintegrating tablets.

In some of the cases, Dexlansoprazole can also be recommended for certain other conditions, but this has to be determined by a healthcare specialist.

The overall mechanism works because Dexlansoprazole comes with a unique pharmacokinetic profile due to its delayed release and dual-delivery release system.

So, if you develop too much acid in your stomach, then Dexlansoprazole is the perfect treatment available.

Overview

Dexlansoprazole is the PPI that treats acid-related disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease and helps to release the production of stomach acid and helping to release different symptoms like-

Heartburn, acid regurgitation and damage to the oesophagus (which is caused by the excessive acid).

Dexlansoprazole allows for extended acid control throughout the day and with just one dose.

This makes the use of Dexlansoprazole important for patients who experience daytime and nighttime acid reflux symptoms.

Description

Dexlansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that helps to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach.

It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of-

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

erosive esophagitis

The medicine is available in generic form and typically available in 30 mg or 60 mg capsules or orally disintegrating tablets and should be taken as prescribed by a doctor.

But remember, Dexlansoprazole is not suitable for immediate relief of heartburn symptoms and should be used under a healthcare provider’s guidance.

Uses / Indications

The medicine helps to relieve the symptoms of heartburn, acid regurgitation, and chest discomfort, which is caused by acid reflux.

Dexlansoprazole helps to relieve inflammation and ulcers in the oesophagus caused by stomach acid. This manner promotes the healing of the oesophageal lining.

This drug also helps to prevent the reappearance of oesophageal damage, and this manner of control can be taken.

Off-label use has been seen in Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, which is a rare condition that causes excessive stomach acid.

Preventing gastric ulcers in NSAID users.

Benefits

Dual delayed release is one of the major benefits, as the medicine provides extended acid control with a single dose.

Dexlansoprazole is also effective in treating GERD, which means it relieves insistent heartburn and acid regurgitation.

Promoting healing of inflammation and ulceration in the oesophagus.

Maintains to healing of oesophagal damage and prevents recurrence.

Improving the quality of sleep by reducing the nighttime reflux symptoms.

Side Effects

Common

Serious

How Does It Work?

Dexlansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that is responsible for the blockage of the stomach lining that is responsible for producing gastric acid.

However, as compared to other antacids that neutralize current stomach acid, Dexlansoprazole stops the construction of new acid at its source.

Its unique dual-release formulation ensures that the medication is released in two phases.

The one is shortly right after ingestion, and the second is another several hours later and provides prolonged acid suppression throughout the day and night.

Dosage Guidelines

In case of heartburn relief, 30 mg once daily for 4 weeks should be taken as advised by the doctor.

To control Erosive Esophagitis, patients are advised to take 60 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks.

It is advisable to take 30 mg once daily to maintain Healed Esophagitis.

Directions for Use

Taking Dexlansoprazole should be done as prescribed by a specialist and not on your own.

The medicine can be taken along with or also without food.

You must swallow the capsule and do not crush or chew.

When Not to Use

Different allergies can hit individuals after consuming Dexlansoprazole, and hence, it is advisable not to use it when developing allergies.

Major drug interaction can come, and hence, avoid consuming Dexlansoprazole with other medicines.

Children who are under 12 years of age are not advised to consume Dexlansoprazole.

Patients with liver impairment or kidney are not advised to consume Dexlansoprazole.

Drug Interactions

Dexlansoprazole can also interact with Rilpivirine, Warfarin, Clopidogrel, Methotrexate, Ketoconazole, and even with iron supplements.

Safety Advice

Dexlansoprazole is not meant to be immediate relief of heartburn.

You must use the lowest and most effective dose for the shortest duration needed.

Must monitor the signs of low magnesium, especially with long-term use.

You must inform your doctor if you are experiencing persistent diarrhoea or abdominal pain.

General Instructions

Make sure you are not doubling the dose or missing it during the treatment.

Storage requires to be done in a cool and dry place.

Must keep out of reach of children.

Special Dietary / Lifestyle Tips

When you are consuming Dexlansoprazole, make sure you are not consuming spicy, acidic, or fatty foods, as all of these can worsen acid reflux.

Try to eat smaller and more frequent meals instead of consuming a heavy diet altogether.

Do not lie down right after consuming Dexlansoprazole.

Reduce the intake of caffeine, alcohol, and smoking.

Try to maintain a healthy weight and wear loose-fitting clothing.

Comparison with Other Treatments

The duration of action of Dexlansoprazole is extended and has to be consumed once on a daily basis.

The onset of relief is quite slow, but it is quite sustained.

Coming to the nighttime symptoms relief, then it is considered to be superior.

The consumption of Omeprazole is quite moderate and has to be consumed once/twice daily (as advised by the doctor).

Once consumed, the relief is quite fast, and the symptoms relief is moderate.

The duration of action is quite long compared to both of the other medicines (as mentioned above).

The dose has to be taken once on a daily basis.

The onset of relief is moderate.

The speed at which symptoms are relieved is good.

Precautions / Warnings

The long-term use of Dexlansoprazole should not be used for the longer term as it can cause infections in the gut, bone fractures, and also B12 deficiency.

It must be used very carefully during conditions like osteoporosis or autoimmune disorders.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women have to be extra careful as it can cause side effects, and monitoring is needed.

Can Be Taken With / Should Be Avoided

Compatible with:

The Dexlansoprazole can be taken with water and along with food.

If you are required to take antacids, then you must take them at different times.

Some of the antibiotics can also be taken (but do consult with a doctor).

Avoid with:

The consumption of Dexlansoprazole should be avoided with alcohol and smoking.

There can be possible interactions seen with grapefruit juice, and hence avoidance is needed.

The high dose of NSAIDs can also increase the risk of side effects, and hence, monitoring is needed.