Pantocid L Capsule (10 Cap)

PANTOCID L CAPSULE

PANTOCID L CAPSULE is a combination medication manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: PANTOCID L CAPSULE
  • Common Name: Pantoprazole Sodium and Levosulpiride Capsules

• Composition: Each capsule of PANTOCID L CAPSULE contains:

  • Pantoprazole Sodium IP equivalent to Pantoprazole 40 mg (as enteric-coated pellets)
  • Levosulpiride 75 mg (as sustained-release tablet)

• Uses: PANTOCID L CAPSULE is primarily used to treat various gastrointestinal conditions by reducing stomach acid production and improving gastrointestinal motility:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
  • Acidity and Heartburn
  • Peptic Ulcers (including duodenal and gastric ulcers)
  • Erosive Esophagitis
  • Indigestion (dyspepsia), particularly when associated with delayed gastric emptying
  • Relief from nausea, vomiting, and bloating associated with digestive disturbances

• Dosage and Administration:

  • The recommended dose is typically one capsule once daily, preferably before meals.
  • It should be taken 15 to 60 minutes before meals, ideally in the morning.
  • Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water; do not chew, crush, or break it.
  • The dosage and duration of treatment are determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's age, weight, and condition. Do not exceed the maximum recommended daily dose of pantoprazole 40 mg and levosulpiride 75 mg.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, constipation, flatulence (gas), headache, dizziness, and dry mouth.
  • Less Common but Potentially Serious Side Effects: Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes), kidney problems (changes in urine output), muscle weakness, seizures, anxiety, depression, changes in blood cell counts, and benign polyps in the stomach. Long-term use may increase the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures and magnesium deficiency.

• Precautions:

  • Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications (including supplements and herbal products) you are currently taking.
  • Avoid alcohol consumption as it may worsen symptoms and increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness and increased stomach acid production.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally not recommended; consult a doctor as benefits must outweigh risks.
  • Liver and Kidney Impairment: Use with caution; dose adjustment may be needed in severe cases.
  • Children: Not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years due to a lack of safety and efficacy data.
  • Elderly Patients: Use with caution due to increased risk of postural hypotension, sedation, and extrapyramidal effects.
  • May cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
  • Long-term therapy may lead to bacterial overgrowth in the GI tract or atrophic gastritis.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.
  • Store below 30°C, ideally between 20-25°C.

What is Pantocid L Capsule used for?

Pantocid L Capsule is a combination medicine primarily used to treat acid-related stomach issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acidity, indigestion, heartburn, and peptic ulcers. It helps alleviate symptoms like heartburn, chest discomfort, and irritation of the esophagus by reducing stomach acid production and promoting gas elimination.

How does Pantocid L Capsule work?

Pantocid L Capsule contains two active ingredients: Pantoprazole and Levosulpiride. Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that works by blocking an enzyme in the stomach lining responsible for acid production, thereby reducing the amount of acid secreted. Levosulpiride is a prokinetic agent that increases the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, preventing the backflow of food and acid into the food pipe. It also enhances the movement of the stomach and intestines.

What is the usual dosage for Pantocid L Capsule?

The recommended dose of Pantocid L Capsule is typically one capsule once daily, usually taken 15 to 60 minutes before meals, preferably in the morning. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not chewed or crushed. Your doctor will determine the exact dosage and duration based on your condition, age, weight, and response to treatment.

What are the possible side effects of Pantocid L Capsule?

Common side effects of Pantocid L Capsule can include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence (gas). If these side effects persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult your doctor. Rare but serious side effects can include allergic reactions, liver problems, kidney problems, muscle weakness, seizures, and changes in blood cell counts. Long-term use may also increase the risk of brittle bones (osteoporosis) and low magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia).

Is Pantocid L Capsule safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pantocid L Capsule is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy due to limited information on its safety and potential risks to the developing baby. For breastfeeding mothers, Pantocid L Capsule may pass into breast milk, and its use is generally advised against unless considered essential by a physician, who will weigh the benefits against the risks. It is crucial to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can Pantocid L Capsule be taken with other medications?

Pantocid L Capsule can interact with certain medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all other prescription, over-the-counter, herbal products, and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Notable interactions include medicines for fungal infections (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), HIV infection (e.g., atazanavir), rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, or cancer (e.g., methotrexate), and some antibiotics.

What precautions should be taken while using Pantocid L Capsule?

Precautions include avoiding alcohol consumption as it can increase stomach acid and worsen symptoms like acidity and heartburn. This medicine may cause dizziness and drowsiness, so it's advised to avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Caution is also advised for patients with kidney or liver impairment, and those with a history of pheochromocytoma, epilepsy, mania, gastrointestinal bleeding, or intestinal obstruction. Long-term use may require monitoring for bone health and magnesium levels.

What happens if a dose of Pantocid L Capsule is missed?

If you miss a dose of Pantocid L Capsule, 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 double the dose to compensate for a missed one.

How should Pantocid L Capsule be stored?

Pantocid L Capsule should be stored at room temperature, typically between 15-25ºC or below 30ºC. It should be protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.