Lansoprazole

What is lansoprazole used for?

Lansoprazole is a medicine that belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). It reduces the amount of acid that your stomach makes. It’s commonly used to treat acid-related stomach and oesophagus conditions[1]. 

What is lansoprazole used to treat?

Lansoprazole is used for[1]: 

• Indigestion and heartburn

• Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD)

• Prevention and treatment of stomach and duodenal ulcers

• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a rare condition involving excessive stomach acid due to tumors) 

• Helicobacter pylori infections (in combination with antibiotics) 

How does lansoprazole work?

Lansoprazole works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, making it effective in treating various acid-related stomach and oesophageal conditions[1]. 

Who can take lansoprazole?

Most adults and children can take lansoprazole. However, to ensure it's safe, tell your doctor or pharmacist before taking lansoprazole if you[1]: 

• Have had allergic reactions to lansoprazole  

• Have liver problems 

• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding 

• Are due to have an endoscopy investigation (it can mask symptoms) 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have before starting lansoprazole, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

How do you take lansoprazole?

Lansoprazole is best taken once daily in the morning, ideally 30 minutes before a meal or snack[1].  

If you are prescribed lansoprazole twice a day, take it in the morning and evening. 

Swallow the capsules whole with water. If you struggle, you can open them and mix the granules with soft food or juice. 

What is the typical dosage of lansoprazole?

The typical dose of lansoprazole varies depending on the condition being treated[1]. 

• Indigestion, acid reflux, or ulcers: 15–30 mg once daily 

• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: 60 mg daily (can go up to 120 mg) 

• Children, elderly, or those with liver issues: Dose may be lower; follow doctor's instructions 

Can you stop taking lansoprazole?

Don’t stop taking lansoprazole suddenly without medical advice, especially if you’ve been on it long-term. Stopping abruptly may cause a return of your symptoms[1]. 

What do you do if you take too much lansoprazole?

It’s very unlikely that 1 or 2 extra doses of Lansoprazole will cause any problems. If you take an extra dose, it may cause you to get some side effects. If you are concerned, then contact your doctor or pharmacist or call 111 for advice. 

What do you do if you forget a dose of lansoprazole?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time[1]. 

If you usually take lansoprazole twice a day, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but if it’s 4 hours or less until your next, do not take it. Do not double the dose to catch up.  

What are the side effects of lansoprazole?

The most common side effects of lansoprazole are usually mild and include[1][2]: 

• Headache 

• Diarrhoea 

• Stomach pain 

• Constipation 

• Nausea or vomiting 

Serious side effects are rare and can include[1][2]: 

• Severe allergic reactions e.g., rash, swelling (especially of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing) or severe dizziness (call 999 or go to A&E immediately) 

• Severe or persistent stomach pain, especially with nausea/vomiting or yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice) - could be a sign of liver problems. 

• Low magnesium levels (can cause muscle cramps, fatigue, dizziness, irregular heartbeat) 

• Increased risk of bone fractures (especially with long-term, high-dose use) 

If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking lansoprazole and seek immediate medical advice from your GP, call 111, or in case of severe allergic reaction, go to A&E or call 999. 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice.

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Medicines you can and can't take with lansoprazole

Tell your doctor about all these, as they may interact or require monitoring: [1][2]: 

• Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) 

• HIV medications 

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) 

• Methotrexate 

• St John's Wort 

• Iron supplements (lansoprazole may reduce their absorption) 

• Digoxin 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about lansoprazole

How long does lansoprazole take to work? 

You may start to feel better in 2-3 days, but it can take up to 4 weeks to fully work[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking lansoprazole? 

Yes, but it is best to limit or avoid alcohol as it can irritate your stomach and worsen your symptoms. [1]. 

Is lansoprazole safe to take during pregnancy? 

Lansoprazole is not usually the first choice during pregnancy[1]. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist who could recommend something similar.  

Can I take lansoprazole long-term? 

Yes, but only under medical supervision due to potential increased risks of bone fractures, low magnesium and vitamin B12 deficiency[1]. Your doctor or pharmacist will regularly monitor your health. 

For the official NHS guide to lansoprazole, visit their website.