Common PPIs include:
These medications work similarly, but some are more effective than others.
There are also differences in additional conditions and ages they treat, warnings, and interactions.
This article discusses the differences between common PPIs.
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Here is a closer look at the differences and similarities among PPIs.
AcipHex
AcipHex (raberprazole) is available by prescription only.
It is also approved in adolescents ages 12 and up for short-term treatment of GERD.
Dexilant
Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) is available by prescription only.
It is approved for treating GERD and EE.
It is also used to prevent EE from returning.
Nexium
Nexium (esomeprazole) is available over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription.
It is used to treat GERD, stomach and peptic ulcers, EE, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Nexium is also approved to help prevent NSAID-associated gastric ulcers.
It is also prescribed in combination with antibiotics to treatH.
Prevacid
Prevacid (lansoprazole) is available OTC and by prescription.
It is also prescribed with antibiotics to treatH.
Prevacid is also approved for the short-term treatment of GERD and EE in children ages 1 and older.
Prilosec
Prilosec (omeprazole) is available OTC and by prescription.
Prilosec is also approved to treat GERD and EE in children ages 1 to 16.
Protonix is also approved for the short-term treatment of GERD and EE in children ages 5 and older.
How PPIs Compare by Dose
While all PPIs work similarly, some are more effective than others.
However, the precise mg-per-mg comparison has not been evaluated.
AcipHex is associated with new-onset cutaneous and systemiclupus erythematosusand an increased risk of fundic gland polyps.
PPI Drug Interactions
Some PPIs also have different drug interactions.
Prilosec and AcipHex may also interact with diagnostic investigations for neuroendocrine tumors.
What Is the Most Effective PPI?
In fact, the American College of Gastroenterology recommends discontinuing PPIs after eight weeks of treatment for GERD.
It is unclear if the same is true for all PPIs.
Always speak to your healthcare provider about the medications that you are taking.
It’s reasonable to ask about the risks and benefits of taking PPI.
If the benefits outweigh the risks for you, consider the lowest possible effective dose.
Which PPI Is Right for Me?
Talk with your healthcare provider about which PPI would work best for you.
If you have a prescription for a PPI, review it with your healthcare provider periodically.
PPIs differ in the conditions and ages that they are approved to treat.
They may require a prescription, or they may be available over the counter.
Check with your healthcare provider to find out which PPI is right for you.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Highlights of prescribing information: AcipHex (raberprazole).
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Highlights of prescribing information: Dexilant (dexlansoprazole).
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Highlights of prescribing information: Nexium (esomeprazole).
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Highlights of prescribing information: Prevacid (lansoprazole).
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Highlights of prescribing information: Prilosec (omeprazole).
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Highlights of prescribing information: Protonix (pantoprazole).
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