Rabicip 20mg Tablet

RABICIP 20MG TABLET

RABICIP 20MG TABLET, manufactured by Cipla Ltd., is a medication used to reduce stomach acid production.

• Composition: Each gastro-resistant tablet contains Rabeprazole Sodium IP 20mg. Rabeprazole belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which work by blocking the enzyme responsible for releasing acid in the stomach.

• Uses: RABICIP 20MG TABLET is prescribed for the treatment and management of various acid-related conditions, including:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), including erosive or ulcerative GERD and symptomatic GERD.
  • Duodenal ulcers and gastric (peptic) ulcers.
  • Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a condition causing excessive gastric acid production.
  • Infections caused by Helicobacter pylori, when used in conjunction with antibiotics.
  • Heartburn and acid indigestion.

• Dosage and Administration: The typical recommended oral dose for active duodenal ulcers and erosive or ulcerative GERD is 20 mg once daily, preferably in the morning. For best results, it should be taken 30 minutes before food, as food can decrease its effectiveness. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not be chewed or crushed. Dosage and duration of treatment will vary based on the specific condition and patient response, as directed by a doctor.

• Side Effects:

  • Common: Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, flatulence, unusual tiredness, and weakness.
  • Serious: Long-term use (over 3 months or a year) may lead to low magnesium levels in the blood, vitamin B12 deficiency, and an increased risk of bone fractures. Rare but serious side effects can include liver damage, severe allergic reactions, and severe intestinal conditions due to C. difficile infection.

• Precautions:

  • Inform your doctor if you have liver problems, a stomach tumor, or a history of osteoporosis.
  • RABICIP 20MG TABLET is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.
  • Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase stomach acid production and worsen symptoms.
  • This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness; therefore, exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.
  • It may interact with certain HIV medications (e.g., atazanavir, rilpivirine, nelfinavir); concomitant use with rilpivirine-containing products is contraindicated.
  • Not recommended for use in children due to lack of safety and efficacy data.

• Storage: Store RABICIP 20MG TABLET below 25°C or 30°C, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

What is RABICIP 20MG TABLET used for?

RABICIP 20MG TABLET is primarily used to treat conditions caused by excessive stomach acid. These include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which causes heartburn and chest pain due to acid reflux, and peptic ulcers in the stomach and intestines. It also helps in the management of erosive esophagitis (damage to the food pipe lining) and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare condition where the stomach produces too much acid due to a tumor. Additionally, it can prevent acidity associated with painkillers and stress ulcers.

How does RABICIP 20MG TABLET work?

RABICIP 20MG TABLET contains rabeprazole, which belongs to a class of medicines called Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). It works by blocking the action of an enzyme system in the stomach lining called the gastric proton pump, which is responsible for producing stomach acid. By reducing the amount of acid produced, it helps to relieve symptoms like heartburn and allows ulcers and damaged areas of the esophagus and stomach to heal.

What is the usual dosage for RABICIP 20MG TABLET?

The usual recommended oral dose for active duodenal ulcers and erosive or ulcerative GERD is 20 mg once daily in the morning. For long-term management of GERD, a maintenance dose of 10 mg or 20 mg once daily may be used, depending on the patient's response. For Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, the starting dose is typically 60 mg once a day, which can be adjusted by your doctor. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, preferably 30 minutes before a meal, and should not be chewed or crushed.

What are the possible side effects of RABICIP 20MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or discomfort, diarrhea, flatulence (gas), cough, runny nose, sore throat, and sleeplessness. Long-term use (typically over 3 months to a year or more) may lead to a deficiency of vitamin B12 and low magnesium levels in the blood (hypomagnesemia). Symptoms of low magnesium can include tiredness, confusion, dizziness, muscle twitches, and an irregular heartbeat. There is also a slightly increased risk of bone fractures with prolonged use. Rare but serious side effects can include liver damage or severe allergic reactions.

Is RABICIP 20MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

RABICIP 20MG TABLET is contraindicated during pregnancy, and you should not take it if you are pregnant or think you might be. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding. It is not known whether rabeprazole is excreted in human breast milk, although it has been found in rat mammary secretions. Your doctor will likely prescribe safer alternatives if you are breastfeeding.

Can RABICIP 20MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

RABICIP 20MG TABLET can interact with several medications. Concomitant use with certain antiretroviral drugs, such as atazanavir, nelfinavir, and rilpivirine, should be avoided as it may reduce their effectiveness. Caution is advised if you are taking antifungals like ketoconazole or itraconazole, digoxin (for heart failure), warfarin (an anticoagulant), or methotrexate (a chemotherapy medicine). Your doctor may need to adjust the dosages of these medications or monitor you closely. If you need to take antacids, they can generally be used, but if taking sucralfate, rabeprazole should be taken at least 30 minutes before it.

What precautions should be taken while taking RABICIP 20MG TABLET?

Before taking RABICIP 20MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you have allergies to rabeprazole or similar medicines, liver problems, a stomach tumor, osteoporosis, or risk factors for Vitamin B12 deficiency. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. It's advisable to limit or avoid large quantities of alcohol, as it can worsen acidity. Long-term treatment may require regular monitoring of vitamin B12 and magnesium levels, and your doctor might recommend calcium and vitamin D supplements. If you develop a skin rash, especially in sun-exposed areas, or if your symptoms do not improve after 14 days, consult your doctor. This medicine is not recommended for use in children.

What happens if a dose of RABICIP 20MG TABLET is missed?

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

How should RABICIP 20MG TABLET be stored?

RABICIP 20MG TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture, at a temperature not exceeding 30°C (or below 25°C). Always keep it out of the sight and reach of children.