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Pantoprazole vs Dexilant

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Overview

Pantoprazole Information

Dexilant Information

Comparative Analysis

Introduction

For patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other types of acid-related disorders, certain medications that alter the production and secretion of gastric acid in the stomach can help in managing discomfort and preventing complications. Pantoprazole and Dexilant are two such drugs that are prescribed for these conditions. They each impact different aspects of gastric acid secretion but both have an effect on reducing excess stomach acidity. Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which works by blocking enzymes responsible for producing gastric acid in the stomach's lining. On the other hand, Dexilant also belongs to PPIs but it has a unique dual-release formulation providing immediate release followed by sustained release, thus offering prolonged control over excessive gastric acid production.

Pantoprazole vs Dexilant Side By Side

AttributeProtonixDexilant
Brand NameProtonixDexilant
ContraindicationsShould not be taken with medications containing rilpivirine. Long-term use can lead to deficiencies in vitamin B12 and magnesium.Should not be taken with medications containing rilpivirine. Long-term use can lead to deficiencies in vitamin B12 and magnesium.
CostFor the brand name, about $220 for 30 capsules (40 mg). Generic versions cost significantly less, ranging from under a dollar up to about two dollars per day depending on dose and location.For the brand name, about $270 for 30 tablets (60 mg). Generic dexlansoprazole costs significantly less, at an average cost of about $1.80 to $3.50 per day depending on dosage.
Generic NamePantoprazoleDexlansoprazole
Most Serious Side EffectSevere allergic reactions, lupus-like syndrome, kidney damage, low magnesium levels, diarrhea caused by an infection (Clostridium difficile), bone fractures if used long term.Signs of an allergic reaction, unusual fatigue or weakness indicating a kidney problem, severe stomach pain, rapid weight loss, fast heartbeats or irregular rhythm, blood in urine/stool, joint pain and muscle cramps.
Severe Drug InteractionsMedications containing rilpivirine.Medications containing rilpivirine.
Typical DoseOral dosages range from 20-40 mg/day for adults. For children aged five years and older, a dosage of 20 mg/day might be recommended.Typically initiated at a dosage of 30–60 mg/day. The medication should be taken once daily, before a meal.

What is Pantoprazole?

Pantoprazole (the generic name for Protonix) was the first drug of the PPI class of gastroprotective agents, which marked a significant development upon H2 receptor antagonists. Pantoprazole was first approved by the FDA in 2000. Pantoprazole works by blocking acid production in the stomach, thereby reducing symptoms and promoting healing in conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is prescribed for the treatment of different forms of gastric disorders including ulcers and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The influence of Pantoprazole on acid secretion is relatively selective with only minor systemic effects, so it has fewer side effects than other drugs that have stronger systemic impacts.

On the other hand, Dexlansoprazole (marketed under brand name Dexilant) is another type of proton pump inhibitor but with a unique dual delayed release formulation that provides two separate releases of medication. This offers extended duration control over acid secretion compared to pantoprazole and could be beneficial to patients who don't find adequate symptom relief from once-daily dosing regimens.

What conditions is Pantoprazole approved to treat?

Pantoprazole is approved for the treatment of various gastrointestinal conditions, such as:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Erosive esophagitis (EE), a type of severe GERD
  • Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare condition characterized by tumors in the pancreas and duodenum that cause increased production of stomach acid.

How does Pantoprazole help with these illnesses?

Pantoprazole helps to manage conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by decreasing the amount of acid produced in the stomach. It does this by binding to an enzyme on the surface of stomach cells known as a proton pump, inhibiting its function and therefore reducing acid secretion. Stomach acid plays an important role in digestion but can cause damage and discomfort if it's overproduced or finds its way into areas like the esophagus. Conditions like GERD are often associated with symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing due to excess or misplaced stomach acid. Therefore, by decreasing stomach acid production, pantoprazole can limit these negative effects and help patients manage their condition effectively.

What is Dexilant?

Dexilant, the brand name for dexlansoprazole, is a type of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces acid production in the stomach. It does this by inhibiting an enzyme located in the stomach lining that contributes to acid secretion. The drug was first approved by the FDA in 2009. Unlike pantoprazole, another PPI commonly used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), dexlansoprazole can be released into your system at two different times thanks to its unique dual delayed-release technology. This means it not only provides initial relief from heartburn but also sustains this relief over time.

Like other PPIs, Dexilant doesn't inhibit or affect serotonin levels and therefore has a different side-effect profile than SSRIs like Prozac - common side effects include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, upper respiratory tract infection and vomiting rather than sedation or weight gain.

For treating conditions related to excess stomach acid such as GERD or erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), it's particularly useful when typical treatments like Pantoprazole may not provide adequate symptom control throughout the day and night.

What conditions is Dexilant approved to treat?

Dexilant is an FDA-approved proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for the treatment of certain gastrointestinal conditions, including:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Erosive esophagitis
  • Maintenance of healed erosive esophagitis This medication works by reducing the amount of acid produced in your stomach, which can help relieve symptoms such as heartburn and difficulty swallowing.

How does Dexilant help with these illnesses?

Proton pumps are enzymes found in the stomach lining that help produce stomach acid. Both Pantoprazole and Dexilant work by blocking these proton pumps, thereby reducing the amount of stomach acid produced. This helps alleviate symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and persistent cough for those with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, Dexilant takes this process a step further. It contains dexlansoprazole which uses a dual delayed release technology to provide two separate releases of medication. This not only provides relief shortly after taking the drug but also throughout the day, making it particularly useful for patients who do not respond well to other proton pump inhibitors like Pantoprazole or require all-day symptom relief.

How effective are both Pantoprazole and Dexilant?

Both pantoprazole and dexlansoprazole (Dexilant) have established histories of success in treating patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and other conditions caused by excess stomach acid. They were initially approved by the FDA a decade apart, with pantoprazole being the older drug. Since they work on different proton pumps, they may be prescribed under different circumstances. Both drugs are proton pump inhibitors that help decrease stomach acid production.

Pantoprazole and dexlansoprazole's effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of GERD was directly studied in several clinical trials; they exhibited similar efficacy as well as promising safety profiles. In these studies, none of the metrics used to measure their effectiveness differed significantly between patients receiving pantoprazole or those receiving dexlansoprazole.

A 2007 review on pantoprazole demonstrated its effectiveness starting from the first week of treatment, having a side effect profile favorable over many other GERD medications, and it is generally well-tolerated even in elderly populations. The same study reports that pantopazole has become one of most-widely prescribed proton pump inhibitors globally due to its proven track record for effectively managing heartburn related symptoms associated with GERD.

On the other hand, a 2009 review indicated that dexlansoprazole seems to provide longer-lasting relief compared to some other common PPIs because it releases medication at two separate intervals throughout the day - hence its nickname "dual-release". Nonetheless, like all medicines there can be potential side effects including diarrhea and abdominal pain but overall both Proton Pump Inhibitors have shown great benefit for relieving symptoms related to an overproduction of stomach acid.

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At what dose is Pantoprazole typically prescribed?

Oral dosages of Pantoprazole range from 20-40 mg/day, which is often sufficient to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other acid-related disorders in most adults. For children aged five years and older, a dosage of 20 mg/day might be recommended. If there isn't any noticeable improvement after a few weeks, the dosage can be adjusted accordingly by your healthcare provider. However, it's crucial not to exceed the maximum daily dosage of 40 mg without medical consultation. On the other hand, Dexilant comes as a delayed-release capsule with strengths ranging between 30-60 mg once daily for up to eight weeks for adults with GERD. Children's dosage should always be determined by their pediatrician.

At what dose is Dexilant typically prescribed?

Dexilant treatment is typically initiated at a dosage of 30–60 mg/day. This dose can be adjusted based on the severity of the condition and individual patient response to therapy. The medication should be taken once daily, before a meal. It's important to note that Dexilant capsules must not be chewed or crushed; they have been designed for delayed-release in order to effectively manage gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms throughout the day. For patients with persistent GERD symptoms, even after an initial course of treatment, your healthcare provider may opt for long-term management using a maintenance dose of 30 mg Dexilant per day.

What are the most common side effects for Pantoprazole?

Common side effects for Pantoprazole and Dexilant can be similar but also have their own unique set of symptoms. For Pantoprazole, these may include:

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Stomach pain
  • Gas and bloating
  • Joint pain

As for Dexilant, users might experience the following:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Gas (flatulence)
  • Upper respiratory tract infection

Always consult with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing any adverse effects from medication.

abstract image of a patient experiencing side effect

Are there any potential serious side effects for Pantoprazole?

While comparing Pantoprazole and Dexilant, it's important to note that both medications can potentially cause serious side effects which include:

  • Severe allergic reactions: symptoms can include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat
  • Lupus-like syndrome: joint pain or with rash on cheeks or arms that gets worse in the sun
  • Kidney damage: symptoms may comprise changes in urination, swelling of extremities
  • Low magnesium levels - muscle spasms, irregular heartbeat, seizures
  • Diarrhea caused by an infection (Clostridium difficile) in your intestines.
  • Bone fractures especially if used long term (over 1 year)

If you experience these side effects while taking Pantoprazole or Dexilant reach out to a healthcare professional immediately. Always remember that any medication should only be taken under the guidance of a medical professional who will weigh up the benefits and potential risks.

What are the most common side effects for Dexilant?

Dexilant, a proton pump inhibitor used to treat certain stomach and esophagus problems, can cause an array of side effects such as:

  • Dry mouth or throat discomfort
  • Symptoms of common cold like stuffy nose
  • Mild dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain along with changes in appetite leading to weight fluctuation
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
  • Uncommonly fast heartbeat that may be associated with feelings of nervousness or anxiety
  • Rashes on the skin
  • Increased urination frequency
    Please note that these side effects are typically mild and manageable. However, any persistent discomfort should prompt consultation with your healthcare provider.

Are there any potential serious side effects for Dexilant?

While Dexilant is usually well-tolerated by patients, it can cause severe side effects in some cases. Some of the symptoms to watch out for include:

  • Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling around your face or throat
  • Unusual fatigue or weakness which could indicate a kidney problem
  • Severe stomach pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting
  • Rapid weight loss due to decreased appetite or difficulties eating
  • Fast heartbeats or irregular rhythm
  • Blood in urine/stool indicating possible gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Joint pain and muscle cramps signaling potential electrolyte imbalance

If you notice any of these symptoms while taking Dexilant, stop using the medication immediately and consult with your healthcare provider.

Contraindications for Pantoprazole and Dexilant?

Both Pantoprazole and Dexilant, like most other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), may cause side effects in some people. If you notice any unusual symptoms such as severe diarrhea or signs of kidney problems (changes in the amount of urine), please seek immediate medical attention.

Neither Pantoprazole nor Dexilant should be taken if you are taking, or have been taking medications that contain rilpivirine. Always tell your physician which medications you are currently on; drugs with rilpivirine will require a period of about 4 weeks to clear from the system to prevent dangerous interactions with Pantoprazole and Dexilant.

It's also important to note that long-term use of PPIs can lead to deficiencies in certain nutrients, specifically vitamin B12 and magnesium. You should discuss this risk with your doctor before starting these medications if they're intended for long-term use.

How much do Pantoprazole and Dexilant cost?

For the brand name versions of these drugs:

  • The price for 30 tablets of Dexilant (60 mg) averages around $270, which works out to approximately $9/day.
  • The price for 30 capsules of Pantoprazole (40 mg) is about $220, working out to roughly $7.33/day.

Thus, if you stick with the recommended dosage for each medication, Pantoprazole is less expensive on a per-day treatment basis than Dexilant. However, cost should not be the sole determinant in deciding which of these two medications will suit your needs best as they might have different efficacy and side effect profiles.

For the generic versions:

  • Generic dexlansoprazole (the active ingredient in Dexilant) costs significantly less at an average cost of about $1.80 to $3.50 per day depending on dosage.
  • Generic pantoprazole also offers significant savings with approximate costs ranging from as low as under a dollar up to about two dollars per day depending on dose and location.

Remember that while generics are usually more affordable than their branded counterparts, differences can still exist between brands and generics regarding inactive ingredients that could affect tolerability or efficacy in some patients.

Popularity of Pantoprazole and Dexilant

Pantoprazole, in its generic form as well as under brand names such as Protonix, was estimated to have been prescribed to about 8.5 million people in the US in 2020. Pantoprazole accounted for just over 23% of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) prescriptions in the US. Pantoprazole is used to treat certain stomach and esophagus problems like acid reflux and ulcers.

Dexlansoprazole, marketed under the brand name Dexilant among others, was prescribed to approximately 1.4 million people in the USA during 2020. In terms of PPI prescriptions within the U.S., dexlansoprazole constitutes around 3%. While it does not enjoy a substantial market share like pantoprazole, dexlansoprazole provides a unique dual release mechanism providing relief throughout the day and night which makes it an appealing choice for long-term management of acid-related disorders.

Conclusion

Both Pantoprazole and Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) have a well-established history of use in managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), with various clinical studies and meta-analyses indicating their effectiveness over placebo treatments. Both belong to the class of proton pump inhibitors, which work by reducing stomach acid production, but their pharmacokinetics differ slightly. Pantoprazole is often prescribed as an initial treatment option for GERD due to its affordability and widespread availability, including in generic form. This represents significant cost savings especially for patients who must pay out of pocket.

On the other hand, Dexilant has a unique delivery system that releases medication at two intervals: initially upon ingestion and again several hours later. This dual release mechanism can offer extended relief from GERD symptoms throughout the day and may be suggested if pantoprazole isn't providing sufficient symptom control.

The side effect profile is similar between these two medications; both are generally well-tolerated but they do carry risks such as potential kidney damage or increased risk of bone fractures if used long-term. It's important when starting either drug to closely monitor any changes in your health status and immediately seek medical attention should adverse reactions occur.

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