Brand name : RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex )
Pronounced: ASS-ih-fex
Generic name: Rabeprazole sodium
Why is RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) prescribed?

RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) blocks acid production in the stomach. It is prescribed for the short-term (4 to 8 weeks) treatment of sores and inflammation in the upper digestive canal (esophagus). This condition, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is caused by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus over a prolonged period of time. Because GERD can be chronic, your doctor may continue to prescribe RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) to prevent a relapse after your initial course of treatment and to relieve symptoms of GERD such as heartburn.

RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) can also be prescribed for the short-term (up to 4 weeks) treatment of duodenal ulcers (ulcers that form just outside the stomach at the top of the small intestine), and for Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a disease which causes the stomach to produce too much acid. The drug is classified as a "proton pump inhibitor." It works by blocking a specific enzyme essential to the production of stomach acid. It begins reducing acid within an hour of administration.

RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) is sometimes combined with the antibiotics amoxicillin and clarithromycin to treat infections caused by H. pylori, a type of bacteria that lives in the digestive tract and is often associated with recurrent ulcers.
Most important fact about RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex )

RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) will work even if your symptoms are caused by a serious condition such as stomach cancer. For that reason, doctors are warned to rule out cancer whenever prescribing RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ).
How should you take RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex )?

Take RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) once a day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole; it should not be crushed, chewed, or split. You can continue taking antacids during RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) therapy.

If you're using RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) along with amoxicillin and clarithromycin, take all three drugs at the same time twice a day, once in the morning and again in the evening. This three-drug regimen should be taken with meals.

If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Storage instructions...

RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) should be stored at room temperature and protected from moisture.
RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ). Headache is the most common side effect of RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ), occurring in two people out of 100.
Why should RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) not be prescribed?

If RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) gives you an allergic reaction, you will not be able to use it.
Special warnings about RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex )

If you have stomach ulcers caused by the H. pylori bacteria, RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) could make the condition slightly worse. The doctor may order a test for H. pylori before prescribing this drug. If you test positive, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics along with RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ).

RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) has not been tested in children under 18 years of age.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex )

If RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increase, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) with the following:

Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. The drug may appear in breast milk and should not be taken while you're breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex )

ADULTS : Overdosage

Little is known about RABICIP ( Rabeprazole Sodium , Aciphex ) overdose. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.