Lansoprazole – Advanced proton pump inhibitor for acid-related conditions.
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What is Lansoprazole?
Lansoprazole is a highly effective proton pump inhibitor that provides powerful stomach acid suppression. It’s widely used to treat acid reflux, heal stomach ulcers, and protect the digestive system from acid-related damage.
Book an online consultation if you’re experiencing persistent heartburn, acid reflux, or stomach pain that may be related to excess stomach acid. Our GPs can assess your symptoms and determine if Lansoprazole is the right treatment for your digestive health needs.
What is Lansoprazole used for?
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
- Stomach and duodenal ulcers
- Helicobacter pylori eradication (with antibiotics)
- Prevention of NSAID-induced ulcers
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
- Severe heartburn and acid indigestion
- Barrett's oesophagus management
How does Lansoprazole work?
A proton pump inhibitor that blocks the hydrogen-potassium pump in stomach cells, dramatically reducing stomach acid production and allowing healing of acid-related conditions.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
15-30 mg once daily, usually taken in the morning before food. Can be increased to 60 mg daily if needed.
Children
Weight-based dosing: 0.5-1 mg per kg daily—specialist supervision required.
Important Notes
- Take 30-60 minutes before food for optimal effectiveness.
- Swallow capsules whole—do not chew or crush.
- Contents can be mixed with apple juice or water if swallowing is difficult.
- May take 1-4 days to reach full acid-suppressing effect.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Nausea and stomach upset
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Flatulence and bloating
- Dizziness
- Skin rash
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe diarrhoea (C. difficile infection)
- Bone fractures (with long-term use)
- Low magnesium or vitamin B12 levels
- Kidney problems (acute interstitial nephritis)
- Severe allergic reactions
- Liver problems
Important Warnings
- Long-term use may increase risk of hip, wrist, and spine fractures.
- May mask symptoms of stomach cancer—persistent symptoms need investigation.
- Can reduce absorption of vitamin B12, iron, and magnesium with prolonged use.
- Tell your GP if you have severe liver problems—dose reduction may be needed.
- May increase risk of bone thinning with long-term use.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Warfarin—may increase bleeding risk.
- Clopidogrel—may reduce effectiveness of clopidogrel.
- Digoxin—may increase digoxin levels in blood.
- Ketoconazole and itraconazole—reduced absorption of these antifungals.
- HIV medications (atazanavir, nelfinavir)—may reduce their effectiveness.
- Methotrexate—may increase methotrexate toxicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Lansoprazole different from Omeprazole?
Both are PPIs with similar effectiveness. Lansoprazole may have slightly fewer drug interactions and can be better tolerated by some patients, but both work very similarly.
Can I take Lansoprazole long-term?
Yes, under medical supervision. Your GP will regularly review the need and may recommend periodic treatment breaks or monitoring for long-term effects.
Why do I need to take it before eating?
Lansoprazole works best when taken before meals because this is when the acid-producing pumps are most active and ready to be blocked.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. Don't take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14