What is this medication for?
Rabeprazole belongs to the class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and it works by reducing the production of acid in the stomach. Rabeprazole is used to treat and maintain healing of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in adults. It is also used for short-term treatment in the healing and relief of symptoms associated with duodenal ulcers.
When used in combination with antibiotics, it is used to treat and eradicate H. pylori bacteria (the cause of most duodenal ulcers). Rabeprazole is also used for long-term treatment of conditions associated with constant production of excess acid in the stomach, including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
For children and adolescents 12 years of age and older, rabeprazole is used in the short-term treatment of GERD.
Most people will experience some improvements in symptoms 1 to 2 weeks after starting rabeprazole. It may take up to 4 weeks for people to experience maximum benefit from this medication.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Aciphex® is available as:
- tablets (delayed release)
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Rabeprazole delayed-release tablet has been designed to work throughout the day, and therefore needs to be taken only once daily. This medication may be taken with or without food. Swallow these tablets whole with a beverage. Do not chew, crush, or split the tablets.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): The recommended dose of rabeprazole for adults for treating or relieving the symptoms of GERD is 20 mg taken once daily. The recommended adult dose for maintaining long-term healing of GERD is 20 mg taken once daily.
The usual length of treatment for treating GERD is 4 to 8 weeks. For the short-term treatment of GERD in children and adolescents 12 years of age and older, the recommended dose is 20 mg taken once daily for up to 8 weeks.
Duodenal ulcer: The recommended adult dose of rabeprazole for the healing of duodenal ulcers is 20 mg taken once daily after the morning meal for a period of up to 4 weeks.
Healing of ulcers caused by H. pylori: The recommended dose of rabeprazole is 20 mg twice daily with morning and evening meals for 7 days. Rabeprazole is used in combination with antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria H. pylori.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: The recommended adult starting dose of rabeprazole for treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is 60 mg taken once daily. Some people may require higher doses. Your doctor will adjust the dose of this medication as needed.
If the symptoms that were causing you problems have not gone away by the time you finish your medication or as discussed with your doctor, call your doctor.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you:
- are allergic to rabeprazole or any ingredients of the medication
- are allergic to other proton pump inhibitors