Veloz 40 Tablet (10 Tab)

VELOZ 40 TABLET

Name

Brand Name: VELOZ 40 TABLET Common Name: Rabeprazole (as Rabeprazole Sodium)

Composition

Each tablet contains Rabeprazole 40mg. Rabeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

Uses

VELOZ 40 TABLET is used to treat various acid-related conditions of the stomach and intestine by reducing stomach acid production. These conditions include:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), including erosive esophagitis, heartburn, and acid reflux
• Peptic ulcer disease (gastric and duodenal ulcers)
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a condition with excessive stomach acid production due to pancreatic tumors)
• Prevention of ulcers caused by NSAIDs (painkillers)
• Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection (in combination with antibiotics)

Dosage and Administration

VELOZ 40 TABLET should be taken as advised by your physician. It is typically 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. Your doctor will determine the correct dose and duration based on your age, body weight, and medical condition.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain, indigestion, or flatulence
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) or weakness
• Runny nose or sore throat

Serious side effects, though rare, require immediate medical attention:

• Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, swelling of face, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure)
• Severe watery or bloody diarrhea with fever or stomach pain
• Signs of vitamin B12 deficiency (pale skin, oral sores, disturbed vision, irritability, depression)
• Low magnesium levels (fatigue, confusion, dizziness, muscle twitches, irregular heartbeat)
• Increased risk of bone fractures with long-term use (over 1 year), especially at higher doses

Precautions

• Inform your doctor if you have liver problems, osteoporosis, vitamin B12 deficiency, or stomach tumors.
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.
• Avoid alcohol consumption as it may worsen symptoms and increase stomach acid.
• May cause dizziness or sleepiness; avoid driving or operating machinery if affected.
• Inform your doctor if you are taking medicines for HIV (e.g., atazanavir), fungal infections (e.g., ketoconazole), or high-dose methotrexate.
• Long-term use may require monitoring of magnesium and vitamin B12 levels.
• Not recommended for children as safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Storage

Store VELOZ 40 TABLET below 25°C, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it out of sight and reach of children and pets.

VELOZ 40 TABLET: Frequently Asked Questions

What is VELOZ 40 TABLET used for?

VELOZ 40 TABLET is primarily used to treat conditions caused by excessive stomach acid. These include Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease (which involves sores in the stomach and intestines), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a rare condition causing high acid production due to pancreatic tumors). It also helps in healing erosive oesophagitis (damage to the food pipe lining) and can be used in combination with antibiotics to treat Helicobacter pylori infections.

How does VELOZ 40 TABLET work?

VELOZ 40 TABLET contains Rabeprazole, which belongs to a class of medicines called Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). It works by reducing the amount of acid produced in your stomach. It achieves this by blocking the action of an enzyme known as H+ K+ ATPase, or the "proton pump," located in the lining of the stomach walls. This reduction in acid helps relieve symptoms, allows ulcers to heal, and prevents new ones from forming.

What is the usual dosage for VELOZ 40 TABLET?

The dosage of VELOZ 40 TABLET is determined by your doctor based on your specific condition, age, body weight, and response to treatment. Generally, it is advised to take this medicine once daily on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning, about 30-60 minutes before a meal. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed or chewed.

What are the possible side effects of VELOZ 40 TABLET?

Common side effects can include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence (gas), stomach pain, and oral sores. These are usually mild and often resolve on their own. However, if any side effects bother you or persist, consult your doctor. Long-term use (typically over 3 months or a year) may lead to more significant side effects such as low magnesium levels, vitamin B12 deficiency, and an increased risk of bone fractures (especially of the hip, wrist, or spine).

Is VELOZ 40 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

VELOZ 40 TABLET is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor before taking this medicine to discuss the potential benefits and risks.

Can VELOZ 40 TABLET be taken with other medications?

VELOZ 40 TABLET can interact with certain other medications. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking. Specific interactions include:

• Medicines for fungal infections (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole).
• Medicines for HIV infection (e.g., atazanavir, nelfinavir, rilpivirine).
• Chemotherapy medicines (e.g., methotrexate).
• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone).
• Blood thinners (anticoagulants like warfarin or clopidogrel), as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Digoxin (used for heart failure).
• Antacids; it's advisable to maintain a 1-2 hour gap between taking VELOZ 40 TABLET and antacids to avoid absorption issues.

What precautions should be taken while using VELOZ 40 TABLET?

Before taking VELOZ 40 TABLET, inform your doctor if you have any liver problems, vitamin B12 deficiency, osteoporosis (bone loss), or any stomach tumors. Avoid consuming alcohol as it can increase stomach acid production and worsen your symptoms. This medicine may cause dizziness or sleepiness, so it is advisable to avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience these effects. Long-term use requires regular monitoring of magnesium and vitamin B12 levels, and your doctor may recommend calcium and vitamin D supplements to support bone health. VELOZ 40 TABLET is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

What happens if a dose of VELOZ 40 TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of VELOZ 40 TABLET, 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 a missed one.

How should VELOZ 40 TABLET be stored?

VELOZ 40 TABLET should be stored below 25°C. Keep it in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Ensure it is kept out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Do not use expired medicine and discard any unused medicine properly.