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What Are the Side Effects of Aciphex?

Achiphex, or rabeprazole, is a drug that helps to decrease gastric secretions by inhibiting the production of hydrogen ions in the stomach. It is classified as a proton pump inhibitor, or PPI.
Achipex is used to treat both moderate and severe gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), duodenal ulcers and other conditions resulting from hypersecretion of stomach acid. It may also be used as part of a combination regimen to treat the Helicobacter pylori bacterium responsible for certain types of ulcers.

  1. Most Common Side Effects

    • Headache, sore throat, nausea, constipation and flatulence occurred most during clinical trials, appearing in greater than two percent of patients.

    Less Common Side Effects

    • Less than two percent of patients reported other side effects while taking Aciphex.

    Central Nervous System and Musculoskeletal Effects

    • Dizziness, memory changes, depression, sensitivity to light, seizures, nerve pain and numbness were noted during Aciphex trials. Generalized pain, muscle pain, muscle degradation and joint pain were also observed, as well as difficulty swallowing.

    Cardiovascular/Respiratory System Effects

    • Difficulty breathing, fainting, EKG changes, water retention and rapid heartbeat have occurred with Aciphex use.

    Hematologic Effects

    • Extremely rare but serious blood cell changes were also recorded, including agranulocytosis, leukopenia and anemia.

    Other Useful Information

    • Aciphex should be swallowed whole, never chewed or crushed, and should be taken before eating.

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