The Effects of Long-Term Use of Prevacid

Prevacid is prescription medication which is used to treat the conditions of the stomach, including acid reflux and stomach ulcers. Prevacid is prescribed in a tablet form for oral administration. Side effects of Prevacid can be classified as moderate to severe, and may last for several hours after taking Prevacid to several days, weeks or even longer. If you are experiencing any negative reactions as a result of taking Prevacid, you need to inform your doctor, as he may need to adjust your dosage or provide alternative treatment.

Dosage

• Take your dose of Prevacid exactly as it was prescribed to you. It is very important that you do not alter your dosage of Prevacid. Do not skip a dose of Prevacid. If you forget to take your dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Never double up on Prevacid, as it may cause overdose. Symptoms of Prevacid overdose include difficulty breathing, breaking out in hives, oral swelling (swelling of the face, lips, or mouth). Get emergency medical help if you experience overdose from Prevacid.

Moderate Effects

• Moderate side effects of Prevacid may last for hours, days, weeks or possibly for longer durations. Side effects of Prevacid which are considered moderate include headache, stomach pain, diarrhea as well as constipation. Nausea is also a side effect related to Prevacid. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any negative reactions as a result of taking Prevacid.

Severe Effects

• Some effects of Prevacid are classified severe and require that you seek emergency medical attention immediately. If you experience an allergic reaction such as hives or have difficulty breathing or swallowing, if you have chest pain or swelling of the face, you may be experiencing a negative reaction to Prevacid. Do not wait to phone your doctor's office, seek emergency medical attention.

Medical Interactions

• Some medical conditions or drugs may cause an interaction with Prevacid which will cause side effects to last for longer periods or become more severe. If you are currently taking any medications, let your doctor know. Do not take Prevaid if you are taking Omnipen, Reyataz, Plavix, Nizoral, Mol-Iron, Elizophyllin, Slo-Bid or Uniphyl without talking to your doctor first. If you are taking any over-the-counter medications, mention those to your doctor as well.

Warning

• It is important that you do not breastfeed if you are nursing while using Prevacid. Prevacid can pass into breast milk. If you are currently using a medication called Carafate, it is important that you wait at least half an hour to take Carafate after taking Prevacid. Do not administer Prevacid to any child under the age of 1.