Pantocid 20 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

PANTOCID 20 MG TABLET

PANTOCID 20 MG TABLET is a widely used medication to manage conditions related to excessive stomach acid. Manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., it provides effective relief and promotes healing of the gastrointestinal tract.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Pantocid 20 MG Tablet
  • Common Name: Pantoprazole (active ingredient)

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains Pantoprazole 20 mg. Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

• Uses: PANTOCID 20 MG TABLET is prescribed for the treatment and management of various acid-related disorders:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and its symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux.
  • Peptic Ulcer Disease (stomach and duodenal ulcers).
  • Erosive Esophagitis (inflammation of the food pipe).
  • Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (a condition with excessive acid production).
  • Prevention of stomach ulcers and acidity caused by prolonged use of painkillers.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Typically, PANTOCID 20 MG TABLET is taken once daily, preferably one hour before a meal, usually in the morning.
  • The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed or chewed.
  • The dosage and duration depend on the medical condition and response to treatment, as determined by a physician.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea or watery stools
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Dizziness
  • Flatulence (gas)

  More serious, though less common, side effects can include severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), bone fractures with long-term use, and magnesium or Vitamin B12 deficiency with prolonged therapy.

• Precautions:

  • Do not use if allergic to pantoprazole or any other ingredients.
  • Not recommended for children under 5 years of age.
  • Caution is advised in pregnant or breastfeeding women; consult a doctor.
  • Inform your doctor if you have liver problems, kidney problems, or a history of gastric cancer.
  • Long-term use (over 3 months to a year) may lead to decreased magnesium levels, increased risk of bone fractures, and Vitamin B12 deficiency.
  • Interactions can occur with certain medications, including blood thinners (warfarin), antifungals (ketoconazole), anti-HIV drugs (atazanavir, nelfinavir), and methotrexate.

• Storage:

  • Store at room temperature (below 30°C) and keep away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Pantocid 20 MG Tablet:

What is Pantocid 20 MG Tablet used for?

Pantocid 20 MG Tablet is primarily used to treat various acid-related disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract. This includes conditions like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), heartburn, erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the food pipe), active duodenal and benign gastric ulcers, and pathological hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It can also help prevent stomach ulcers and acidity caused by the prolonged use of painkillers.

How does Pantocid 20 MG Tablet work?

Pantocid 20 MG Tablet contains pantoprazole, which belongs to a class of medicines called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). It works by irreversibly blocking the H+/K+-ATPase enzyme system, also known as the proton pump, located in the stomach lining cells. This enzyme is responsible for the final step in producing stomach acid. By inhibiting this pump, pantoprazole effectively reduces the amount of acid secreted in the stomach, thereby relieving symptoms and promoting the healing of acid-related conditions.

What is the usual dosage for Pantocid 20 MG Tablet?

The typical dosage for Pantocid 20 MG Tablet is one tablet taken once daily, preferably in the morning and about an hour before a meal. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed, chewed, or broken. Your doctor will determine the exact dosage and duration of treatment based on your specific condition and response to the medicine.

What are the possible side effects of Pantocid 20 MG Tablet?

Common side effects include headache, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, flatulence (gas), and joint pain. These are usually mild and temporary.

More serious, though rare, side effects can include severe allergic reactions, severe diarrhea (potentially Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea), low magnesium levels, and an increased risk of bone fractures (especially with long-term, high-dose use). Long-term daily use may also lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, consult your doctor.

Is Pantocid 20 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

• Pregnancy: Caution is advised during pregnancy. Pantocid 20 MG Tablet is not routinely recommended for pregnant women due to limited human safety data. Animal studies have shown potential harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will carefully weigh the potential benefits against any risks before prescribing it. Omeprazole, a similar medication with more available safety data, might be suggested as an alternative.
• Breastfeeding: Pantoprazole passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is considered probably safe for use during breastfeeding, but it is important to monitor your baby for any unusual symptoms such as changes in feeding patterns, constipation, diarrhea, or irritability. Always consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are breastfeeding.

Can Pantocid 20 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

Pantocid 20 MG Tablet can interact with certain other medications. It can reduce the absorption of some antiretroviral medicines like atazanavir and nelfinavir, so co-administration should be avoided. It may also affect the action of blood thinners like warfarin, necessitating monitoring of blood clotting. High doses of methotrexate (used in cancer treatment) may have increased levels and side effects when taken with Pantocid. Additionally, it may interact with medicines for fungal infections (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) and should not be used with rilpivirine (an anti-HIV medicine). Always inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken while using Pantocid 20 MG Tablet?

Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, a history of stomach cancer, weak or brittle bones (osteoporosis), low vitamin B12 levels, or if you have had a skin reaction to similar medications in the past. Long-term use (over one year) and high doses may increase the risk of bone fractures and vitamin B12 deficiency. If you experience dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. Do not stop taking the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, as your symptoms may return or worsen. Also, do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole.

What happens if a dose of Pantocid 20 MG Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the forgotten dose.

How should Pantocid 20 MG Tablet be stored?

Pantocid 20 MG Tablet should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light and moisture. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Always check the expiry date on the packaging and do not use the medicine if it has expired.