Rabeprazole

What is rabeprazole?

Rabeprazole is a prescription-only medicine used to reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. It belongs to a group of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). It's available in the UK under the brand name Pariet and in generic forms[1].

What is rabeprazole used for?

Doctors prescribe rabeprazole to manage conditions caused by too much stomach acid. It is used for the short or long-term treatment of[1]:

• Indigestion (dyspepsia) 

• Heartburn and acid reflux (GORD or GERD) 

• Stomach ulcers 

• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a rare condition involving high stomach acid levels) 

• Helicobacter pylori infection (alongside antibiotics) 

How does rabeprazole work?

Rabeprazole reduces stomach acid by blocking proton pumps, enzymes  in the stomach cells that produce acid. This helps relieve symptoms such as burning pain and supports the healing of ulcers or inflammation[1]. 

Who can take rabeprazole?

Most adults can take rabeprazole safely, but there are a few exceptions. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist first if[1]: 

• You have ever had liver problems 

• You have a stomach tumour 

• You have low magnesium or vitamin B12 levels 

• You take other medicines that may interact with PPIs 

• You are due to have an endoscopy 

• You are allergic to rabeprazole or any of the other ingredients listed in your medicine 

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding 

• You are due to have a specific blood test (Chromogranin A). 

• You have a history of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus 

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

What is the typical dose of rabeprazole?

Rabeprazole tablets contain 10mg or 20mg of rabeprazole. Your dose will depend on your condition and response to treatment. Common dosing instructions include[1]: 

• Heartburn, acid reflux and GORD: 10mg to 20mg a day 

• Stomach ulcers: 20mg a day 

• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: 60mg to 120mg

How do you take rabeprazole?

Rabeprazole tablets should be taken once daily, preferably in the morning, but it can sometimes be twice a day with one dose in the morning and the second in the evening. To take your medication effectively you should:

• Swallow the tablets whole with water or squash 

• Do not chew or crush the tablets 

• It can be taken with or without food, but may work better on an empty stomach

Can you stop taking rabeprazole?

You should not stop taking rabeprazole suddenly if you've been using it long-term. Stopping too quickly can cause a rebound increase in stomach acid. Speak to your pharmacist or doctor, who may advise tapering your dose gradually[1]. 

What do you do if you take too rabeprazole?

An accidental overdose of rabeprazole is unlikely to be dangerous, but you may experience mild symptoms such as[1]: 

• Diarrhoea 

• Headache 

• Stomach pain 

If you’re worried, call NHS 111 or speak to a GP. 

What do you do if you forget to take rabeprazole?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it’s nearly time for your next dose (less than 12 hours if taking once a day or less than four hours if taking twice a day), skip the missed dose and do not take two doses at once[1]. 

How do you store rabeprazole?

To ensure the medicine stays effective, follow these storage tips[1]: 

• Store it in a cool, dry place below 25°C 

• Keep it in its original packaging to protect it from moisture 

• Keep out of reach of children 

What medicines can’t you take with rabeprazole?

Some medicines can interact with rabeprazole, so speak with your doctor or pharmacist first if you already take[1]:

• Antifungal medicines like ketoconazole or itraconazole 

• HIV medications such as atazanavir 

• Methotrexate 

• 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]. 

What are the side effects of rabeprazole?

Like all medicines, rabeprazole may cause side effects, but not everyone gets them. Common side effects include[1]: 

• Headache 

• Diarrhoea or constipation 

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Stomach pain 

• Gas (flatulence) 

• Dizziness  

• Dry mouth 

More serious but rare side effects may include[1]: 

• Joint pain and a red skin rash on sun-exposed parts of your body as signs of a rare condition called subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus 

• Diarrhoea that doesn’t go away 

• Stomach pains that get worse, yellowing of skin or eyes as signs of liver problems 

• Frequent infections like a sore throat, high temperature, mouth or throat ulcers 

• Bruising or bleeding easily 

• Low magnesium (muscle cramps, fatigue, seizures) 

• Vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use) 

• Higher risk of bone fractures (with long-term use) 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

 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]. 

Frequently asked questions about rabeprazole

How long does rabeprazole take to work? 
Relief can begin within a few hours, but full effect usually takes 1 to 2 days[1]. 

Can I take rabeprazole long-term? 
Yes, but only under medical supervision due to risks like vitamin B12 deficiency[1]. 

Is rabeprazole safe during pregnancy? 
Manufacturer advises to avoid taking during pregnancy where possible, only take it if prescribed – speak to your doctor first[1]. Omeprazole (a different PPI) is commonly used in pregnancy.  

Can I drink alcohol while taking rabeprazole? 
Yes, but alcohol may irritate your stomach and reduce the medicine’s effectiveness[1]. 

Can I take antacids at the same time? 
Yes but take them a few hours apart to avoid interfering with absorption[1]. 

Does rabeprazole cause weight gain? 
It’s not a common side effect, though some people report appetite changes[1]. 

Can I take rabeprazole with food? 
Yes but taking it before food may make it more effective[1]. 

Is rabeprazole the same as omeprazole? 
They are both PPIs and work similarly but are different drugs with slightly different properties[1]. 

Can I take rabeprazole with painkillers? 
Yes but avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen unless advised by your doctor, as they can irritate the stomach[1]. 

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

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The information provided on this Medicines A-Z page is intended for general informational purposes only and was accurate as of June 2025. It is designed to offer simple, patient-friendly summaries of prescribed medications based on publicly available resources, including those from the National Health Service (NHS). This content does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a substitute for professional guidance from a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist.

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