Rabicer 20

RABICER 20

RABICER 20, manufactured by Biochem Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., is a medication primarily used to reduce stomach acid production.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: RABICER 20
  • Common Name: Rabeprazole (as Rabeprazole 20 mg)

• Composition:

  • The active ingredient is Rabeprazole 20 mg. Rabeprazole belongs to a class of medicines known as Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs).

• Uses: RABICER 20 is prescribed for acid-related conditions of the stomach and intestine by reducing the amount of acid produced. Its uses include:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), which causes heartburn and chest pain due to acid reflux.
  • Treatment of stomach and intestinal ulcers (peptic ulcers), including those caused by Helicobacter pylori infection (often used with antibiotics).
  • Erosive Esophagitis, an inflammation and erosion of the food pipe due to stomach acid.
  • Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a condition of increased gastric acid production induced by a tumor of the intestine or pancreas.
  • Prevention of ulcers caused by strong painkillers.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Typically, adults take 20 mg once daily.
  • The tablet should be swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of water, without crushing, chewing, or splitting.
  • It is generally recommended to take RABICER 20 preferably in the morning, 30 minutes to one hour before food, as food can decrease its effectiveness.
  • Dosage may vary based on the condition; for Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, higher doses up to 120 mg/day may be prescribed.
  • Do not consume more than the prescribed dosage.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea (which can sometimes be serious)
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headache
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Weakness or unusual tiredness
  • Dry mouth
  • Joint pain Serious, though less common, side effects can include liver function disturbances, altered electrolyte levels (magnesium, calcium, sodium), and B12 deficiency with long-term use.

• Precautions:

  • Long-term Use: Prolonged use (over a year) may lead to a deficiency of vitamin B12, causing symptoms like pale skin, weakness, and disturbed vision. It may also weaken bones, increasing the risk of fractures, especially in elderly patients.
  • Liver Problems: Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver problems; dose adjustment may be needed.
  • Interactions: Inform your doctor about all current medications, supplements, or herbal products, as RABICER 20 can interact with medicines for HIV infections (e.g., Atazanavir, Nelfinavir), antifungals (e.g., Ketoconazole), blood thinners (e.g., Warfarin, Clopidogrel), and high-dose methotrexate. Antacids can be taken if needed, but if taking sucralfate, take RABICER 20 at least 30 minutes before.
  • Alcohol: Avoid large quantities of alcohol as it can increase acidity and worsen stomach conditions.
  • Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid these activities if affected.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.
  • Children: Not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.
  • Symptoms to watch for: Consult a doctor immediately if experiencing persistent diarrhea, painful joints, skin rashes, tiredness, vomiting food or blood, or excreting black stools.

• Storage:

  • Store below 25°C or 30°C, protected from moisture, sunlight, and heat.
  • Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Dispose of expired or no longer needed medicine properly.

RABICER 20, containing the active ingredient Rabeprazole (20 mg), is a prescription medication manufactured by BIOCHEM PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRIES LTD. It belongs to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which work by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

What is RABICER 20 used for?

RABICER 20 is primarily used to treat various acid-related conditions of the stomach and intestine. These include:

• Duodenal ulcers (sores in the upper part of the small intestine).
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), which causes heartburn and acid reflux when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe.
• Erosive esophagitis, which is damage to the lining of the food pipe due to stomach acid.
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare condition where the stomach produces too much acid.
• In combination with antibiotics, it is also used to eradicate Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a type of bacteria that can cause ulcers.

How does RABICER 20 work?

RABICER 20 contains Rabeprazole, which is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by blocking the activity of "proton pumps" in the stomach lining. These pumps are responsible for producing gastric acid. By inhibiting these pumps, Rabeprazole reduces the amount of acid released into the stomach, which helps to relieve symptoms, allows ulcers and damaged areas to heal, and prevents new ulcers from forming.

What is the usual dosage for RABICER 20?

The dosage of RABICER 20 depends on the condition being treated and your doctor's instructions.

• For healing duodenal ulcers: The typical adult dose is 20 mg once a day after the morning meal for up to four weeks.
• For Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and erosive esophagitis: The usual adult dose is 20 mg once a day, typically for 4 to 8 weeks. For adolescents (12 years and older) with GERD, it's usually 20 mg once a day for up to 8 weeks.
• For H. pylori eradication: RABICER 20 (20 mg) is usually taken twice daily for 7 days, along with specific antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin and clarithromycin).
• For Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: Doses can range from 60 mg to 120 mg daily, as determined by your doctor. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions. Do not chew, crush, or split the tablets, and swallow them whole with water.

What are the possible side effects of RABICER 20?

Common side effects of RABICER 20 can include:

• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Sore throat
• Gas (flatulence)
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting Less common or serious side effects can include:
• Severe diarrhea, potentially caused by Clostridium difficile infection.
• Bone fractures (hip, wrist, spine) with long-term, high-dose use, especially in older adults.
• Low magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia), which can lead to muscle spasms, abnormal heart rhythms, or seizures, usually after long-term treatment.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use.
• Serious skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or lupus erythematosus. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.

Is RABICER 20 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

RABICER 20 (Rabeprazole) is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to limited available information. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor. They may recommend a similar medicine with more established safety data. For breastfeeding mothers, while it's generally considered acceptable if the baby is healthy and only a small amount is believed to pass into breast milk, your doctor might suggest an alternative medicine with more extensive safety information. Some sources contraindicate its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Can RABICER 20 be taken with other medications?

RABICER 20 can interact with various medications. It may affect the absorption of drugs that depend on stomach pH for their effectiveness, potentially decreasing the absorption of some (e.g., ketoconazole, iron salts, atazanavir, erlotinib) and increasing the absorption of others (e.g., digoxin). It can also reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel and increase the levels of methotrexate in the body. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are currently taking or plan to take to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking RABICER 20?

Before taking RABICER 20, inform your doctor if you have any allergies to rabeprazole or other PPIs, or if you have a history of:

• Low levels of magnesium, calcium, or potassium in your blood.
• Hypoparathyroidism.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Osteoporosis (weak and brittle bones).
• Autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus.
• Liver disease. Long-term use (over a year) may increase the risk of fractures, low magnesium levels, and fundic gland polyps. This medicine may also increase the risk of severe diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile. Avoid consuming alcohol while on this medication as it can increase stomach acid production.

What happens if a dose of RABICER 20 is missed?

If you miss a dose of RABICER 20, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this could lead to increased side effects.

How should RABICER 20 be stored?

RABICER 20 tablets should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, typically between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep the medicine away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze. Always keep RABICER 20 and all medicines out of the reach of children. Store it in its original package to protect it from moisture and light.