Pantoprazole Sodium (Pancer 40) 40mg Enteric Coated Tablet 100's

Product Description:

Pantoprazole Sodium (Pancer 40) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to reduce stomach acid production. The 40 mg enteric-coated tablets are designed to provide targeted release of the medication to help manage acid-related conditions. By inhibiting the proton pump in the stomach lining, Pantoprazole effectively decreases gastric acid secretion, offering relief from conditions caused by excessive stomach acid. Pantoprazole is often prescribed for both short-term and long-term management of gastric disorders.

Each tablet contains 40 mg of Pantoprazole Sodium, and it comes in a pack of 100 tablets.

Indications:

Pantoprazole Sodium (Pancer 40) is indicated for the treatment and management of a variety of acid-related gastrointestinal conditions. These include:

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):

   • Used for the treatment of symptomatic GERD, where stomach acid frequently backs up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and damage to the esophagus.

2. Peptic Ulcer Disease:

   • Pantoprazole is used in the treatment of gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers, reducing stomach acid to promote healing.

3. Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome:

   • A condition where the stomach produces excessive acid, which can lead to ulcers and other gastrointestinal issues. Pantoprazole helps to control excessive acid production.

4. Helicobacter pylori Eradication:

   • In combination with appropriate antibiotics, Pantoprazole is used to help eradicate H. pylori infection, which is often associated with the development of ulcers.

5. Prevention of NSAID-Induced Ulcers:

   • Used in patients who are at risk for developing ulcers while using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for long-term management.

Dosage:

The typical dosage of Pantoprazole Sodium (Pancer 40) depends on the condition being treated. It is typically taken as a once-daily dose.

For Adults:

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):

   • Standard Dose: 40 mg once daily for 4 to 8 weeks. In some cases, maintenance therapy with a lower dose may be recommended.

2. Peptic Ulcer Disease:

   • 40 mg once daily for 4 to 8 weeks for gastric ulcers and up to 4 weeks for duodenal ulcers.

3. Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome:

   • The dose is usually 40 mg twice daily, with dosage adjustments made based on the patient's response. Higher doses may be required in some cases.

4. H. pylori Eradication:

   • Typically, 40 mg once daily in combination with appropriate antibiotics such as clarithromycin and amoxicillin for 10 to 14 days.

5. Prevention of NSAID-Induced Ulcers:

   • 40 mg once daily while using NSAIDs.

Administration:

• Pantoprazole tablets should be taken whole, without splitting, crushing, or chewing.

• It is recommended to take the tablet before a meal to maximize its effectiveness. Ideally, it should be taken in the morning.

• The tablets are enteric-coated, meaning they are designed to pass through the stomach before dissolving in the intestine to avoid being broken down by stomach acid.

For Elderly or Hepatic Impairment:

• Elderly patients or those with liver impairment may require dose adjustments, and careful monitoring should be done.

Side Effects:

Pantoprazole is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. Some of the common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache.

• Diarrhea or constipation.

• Nausea.

• Abdominal pain or bloating.

• Flatulence (gas).

• Dizziness or drowsiness.

• Fatigue or generalized weakness.

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis). Immediate medical attention is required.

• Severe Abdominal Pain: May indicate pancreatitis or other serious gastrointestinal issues.

• Bone Fractures: Long-term use of PPIs, like Pantoprazole, may increase the risk of bone fractures due to decreased calcium absorption.

• Kidney Damage: Prolonged use can lead to acute interstitial nephritis, resulting in kidney damage.

• Clostridium difficile Infection: Prolonged use of PPIs has been associated with an increased risk of infections, including Clostridium difficile, leading to severe diarrhea.

• Hypomagnesemia: Long-term use may cause low magnesium levels, which can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, seizures, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat.

• Liver Dysfunction: Symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) or dark urine, which may indicate liver damage.

Other Effects:

• B12 Deficiency: Chronic use of Pantoprazole can affect the absorption of vitamin B12, potentially leading to deficiency over time.

• Mental health effects: In rare cases, Pantoprazole can cause mood changes, confusion, or depression.

Contraindications:

Pantoprazole Sodium (Pancer 40) should not be used in certain conditions or by individuals with specific health concerns:

1. Hypersensitivity to Pantoprazole or any component of the product:

   • Contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to Pantoprazole or any of the excipients in the formulation.

2. Severe Hepatic Impairment:

   • Should be used cautiously in patients with severe liver dysfunction or cirrhosis. A lower dose may be required, and close monitoring is essential.

3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

   • Pantoprazole is classified as a Pregnancy Category C drug, meaning it should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary and if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

   • It is excreted in breast milk, so it should be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers.

4. Children:

   • Pantoprazole is not recommended for children under 5 years old, as safety and efficacy have not been established in this population.

Precautions:

• Long-term Use: Prolonged use of Pantoprazole (especially beyond 1 year) should be monitored due to risks of bone fractures, low magnesium levels, and Clostridium difficile infections.

• CNS Effects: Patients should use caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness, as Pantoprazole may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals.

• Renal Function: Caution is advised in patients with pre-existing kidney disease, as they may be at increased risk for kidney-related side effects with long-term use.

• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Long-term use can impair vitamin B12 absorption, so monitoring for B12 deficiency is recommended in patients using Pantoprazole for extended periods.

• Drug Interactions: Pantoprazole can interact with other drugs, including:

  • Clopidogrel: It may reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel, a drug used to prevent blood clots.

  • Warfarin: Pantoprazole may increase the effect of warfarin, leading to a higher risk of bleeding.

  • Antiretrovirals: It may affect the absorption of certain antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV.

Conclusion:

Pantoprazole Sodium (Pancer 40) is an effective proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used for the treatment of acid-related gastrointestinal disorders, such as GERD, peptic ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It works by reducing stomach acid production, thereby promoting healing and providing relief from symptoms. Although generally well-tolerated, Pantoprazole can cause side effects, particularly with long-term use. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult your healthcare provider regularly, especially for extended treatment courses, to monitor for potential complications. Always use this medication under the guidance of a healthcare professional.