Lansoprazole: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

Lansoprazole and Esomeprazole, both proton pump inhibitors, prevent the excessive production of stomach acid. Esomeprazole is an H2 blocker with active elements to block specific receptors on the cell surface that release acids. Taking both the drugs together will only inhibit the acid production, further leading to more complications. It is advisable to consult your doctor before taking both these drugs together.

Lansoprazole is a drug that inhibits excessive acid production that can cause severe ailments and diseases. Alcohol use is not advised with this drug because alcohol increases the acid production that may worsen your symptoms. You must consult your doctor to understand any other drug interactions along with Lansoprazole that will create an unpleasant feeling in your stomach.

Lansoprazole belongs to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. They are known to cause constipation in patients who have been on them for a longer time. Lifestyle modifications like a fibre-rich diet, consuming more water, and exercising can help ease this problem.

Patients taking Lansoprazole can stop taking it if they are using it for a short period. In Lansoprazole long-term users, it is observed there is an increase in acidity, and the symptoms might return, in which case you must consult the physician. However, gradual reduction of dosage can help prevent the return of symptoms.

Lansoprazole, a common drug used for reducing stomach acid, is also known to elevate blood sugar. Many researchers believe that short term use of Lansoprazole is not known to cause any adverse effect on blood sugar levels. Long term administration can be a cause for type 2 diabetes. However, the exact mechanism of elevated blood sugar levels is still not known.

Some people consuming Lansoprazole may experience frequent watery stools. If this symptom persists for a few days, along with other symptoms like fever and abdomen cramps, then you must get in touch with your doctor immediately. The overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria causes diarrhoea in patients. Lansoprazole use decreases the stomach's gastric acid that kills the bacteria, causing irrepressible diarrhoea with cramps and fever.

According to the FDA drug approvals list, Lansoprazole is listed as a Category B drug. The regulations enlist Lansoprazole not to cause any foetal harm, but there is limited research on it in human pregnancies. Lansoprazole may not be completely safe during pregnancy unless the doctor deems it necessary and the benefits outweigh the risk.

Lansoprazole is not a bad drug; it helps prevent and treat conditions like heartburn and ulcers by inhibiting acid production. It has been shown to have a very good efficacy if taken on an empty stomach in the morning. As a drug that interferes with the body's processes, it too has its side effects like diarrhoea, constipation, inflammations, weakness, headache etc.

Lansoprazole is not advised to take for longer than 3 months due to the long-term side effects that it may cause. Long-term use causes a decrease in magnesium levels that can cause physiological changes in the body like muscle twitches, irregular heartbeat, confusion, tiredness, drowsiness, and lower calcium levels.

Lansoprazole does not directly cause any weight gain, but it can cause bloating or oedema. Oedema caused by fluid retention tends to increase body weight making one feel tired and heavy all the time. Acid reflux caused by higher food intake after the acid reflux subsides is another possible reason for weight gain. Lifestyle changes with proper diet and exercise will prevent weight gain. If you feel tired, experience swelling on your hands, feet and stomach, you must consult your physician.