Pantoprazole
Stomach and refluxAlso known as Protonix
Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor, the same family as omeprazole. It switches off the acid-making pumps in your stomach lining so heartburn calms down and damaged tissue can heal. Doctors often choose it when acid reflux is severe, or to protect the stomach while you're on other medicines that irritate it.
How to take it
When
Once a day, 30 to 60 minutes before a meal — usually breakfast.
Food
Before eating. The pumps it targets wake up when you eat, so timing is the trick.
Avoid
Crushing, splitting, or chewing the tablets — the coating matters. And avoid drifting into months of use without a doctor's review.
How long
Often a set course of a few weeks. Long-term use is sometimes right, but it should be a decision, not a habit.
Missed a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember that day, before a meal if possible. If it's nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Diarrhea or stomach ache
- Gas or nausea
Call a doctor if
- Black, tarry stools or vomit like coffee grounds — signs of bleeding, get help now
- Trouble or pain when swallowing
- Severe, watery diarrhea that won't stop
- Heartburn plus unintended weight loss