Brand name : PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole)
Pronounced: ASS-ih-fex
Generic name: Rabeprazole sodium
Why is PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) prescribed?

PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) blocks acid production in the stomach. It is prescribed for the short-term (4 to 8 weeks) treatment of sores and inflammation in the upper digestive canal (esophagus). This condition, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is caused by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus over a prolonged period of time. Because GERD can be chronic, your doctor may continue to prescribe PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) to prevent a relapse after your initial course of treatment and to relieve symptoms of GERD such as heartburn.

PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) can also be prescribed for the short-term (up to 4 weeks) treatment of duodenal ulcers (ulcers that form just outside the stomach at the top of the small intestine), and for Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a disease which causes the stomach to produce too much acid. The drug is classified as a "proton pump inhibitor." It works by blocking a specific enzyme essential to the production of stomach acid. It begins reducing acid within an hour of administration.

PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) is sometimes combined with the antibiotics amoxicillin and clarithromycin to treat infections caused by H. pylori, a type of bacteria that lives in the digestive tract and is often associated with recurrent ulcers.
Most important fact about PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole)

PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) will work even if your symptoms are caused by a serious condition such as stomach cancer. For that reason, doctors are warned to rule out cancer whenever prescribing PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole).
How should you take PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole)?

Take PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) once a day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole; it should not be crushed, chewed, or split. You can continue taking antacids during PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) therapy.

If you're using PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) along with amoxicillin and clarithromycin, take all three drugs at the same time twice a day, once in the morning and again in the evening. This three-drug regimen should be taken with meals.

If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Storage instructions...

PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) should be stored at room temperature and protected from moisture.
PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole). Headache is the most common side effect of PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole), occurring in two people out of 100.
Why should PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) not be prescribed?

If PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) gives you an allergic reaction, you will not be able to use it.
Special warnings about PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole)

If you have stomach ulcers caused by the H. pylori bacteria, PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) could make the condition slightly worse. The doctor may order a test for H. pylori before prescribing this drug. If you test positive, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics along with PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole).

PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) has not been tested in children under 18 years of age.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole)

If PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increase, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) with the following:

Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. The drug may appear in breast milk and should not be taken while you're breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole)

ADULTS : Overdosage

Little is known about PARIET (Rabifin, Aciphex, Rabeprazole) overdose. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.