Drug name: Aciphex (rabeprazole)

Therapeutic effects:

Aciphex is an antiulcer agent, an inhibitor of H+/K+ ATPase (proton pump). The mechanism of action is associated with inhibition of the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme in gastric parietal cells, which leads to blockage of the final stage of hydrochloric acid formation. This effect is dose-dependent and leads to inhibition of both basal and stimulated secretion of hydrochloric acid, regardless of the nature of the stimulus.

Indications:

• Gastric and duodenal ulcer in acute phase
• Gastric and duodenal ulcer associated with Helicobacter pylori (in combination with antibiotics)
• Gastroesophageal reflux

Side-effects:

• diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, flatulence, constipation, rarely dry mouth, dyspepsia, flatulence
• headache, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, rarely nervousness, drowsiness
• rhinitis, pharyngitis, cough, rarely sinusitis, bronchitis
• skin rash
• back pain, flu-like syndrome

Drug interactions:

Aciphex may interact with the following drugs:

• Antibiotics (ketoconazole)
• Cardiac glycosides (eg., Digoxin)

Cautions and restrictions:

Aciphex should not be used in:

• pregnancy, breastfeeding
• hypersensitivity to rabeprazole sodium or substituted benzimidazoles

Aciphex should be used with caution in:

• children
• severe hepatic impairment

Additional information:

Store at temperatures not above 25°C. Do not store in the refrigerator.