Xorel 20 mg

Description

Indications: Xorel is prescribed for the following conditions:

• Active duodenal ulcer
• Active benign gastric ulcer
• Erosive or ulcerative gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Long-term management of GERD
• Treatment of symptomatic GERD
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
• As part of a combination therapy to eradicate Helicobacter pylori in patients with peptic ulcer disease.

Note: Always consult with a registered healthcare provider before using this medication.

Pharmacology: Rabeprazole, the active ingredient in Xorel, works by inhibiting the H+/K+-ATPase enzyme, commonly known as the proton pump, in the stomach lining. This action reduces gastric acid production, helping in conditions where excessive acid secretion is an issue.

Dosage:

• Active Duodenal and Gastric Ulcers: 20 mg daily in the morning. For duodenal ulcers, treatment typically lasts 4 weeks, while gastric ulcers may require up to 6 weeks. Some cases might need additional treatment.

• Erosive or Ulcerative GERD: 20 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks.

• GERD Long-Term Management: A daily dose of 20 mg or 10 mg, based on the patient’s response.

• Symptomatic GERD: 10 mg once daily. If symptoms persist after 4 weeks, further investigation is needed.

• Pediatric GERD (1-11 years):

  • For children under 15 kg: 5 mg daily.
  • For children 15 kg or more: 10 mg daily for 12 weeks.

• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Start with 60 mg once daily, with the potential to increase to 120 mg depending on patient needs. The dose may need to be divided into two daily doses.

• Eradication of H. pylori: A combination therapy for 7 days with Rabeprazole 20 mg twice daily, clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily, and amoxicillin 1g twice daily.

Follow the guidance of your healthcare provider for the correct dosage.

Administration: Take Xorel tablets once daily in the morning before food. Do not chew or crush the tablets; swallow them whole for optimal effect.

Consult with a registered healthcare provider before starting any medication.

Interactions:

• Xorel may reduce the absorption of certain drugs that depend on stomach pH. For example, co-administration with antifungal drugs like ketoconazole or itraconazole may decrease their effectiveness.
• It should not be combined with atazanavir (a treatment for HIV) due to potential drug interaction.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to Rabeprazole or any of the excipients.
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Side Effects: Common side effects of Xorel may include headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, dry mouth, and dizziness. Serious side effects are rare but can include kidney issues, liver damage, or bone fractures.

Pregnancy and Lactation: Xorel is classified as Category C by the US FDA for pregnancy. Animal studies showed no harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate human studies. It is likely to be excreted in breast milk, so a decision should be made whether to continue nursing or discontinue the drug.

Precautions and Warnings:

• Always rule out gastric or esophageal cancer before beginning treatment.
• Long-term use, especially in the elderly, may increase the risk of bone fractures.
• Use cautiously in patients with a history of liver disease.
• Possible side effects include blood disorders like thrombocytopenia or neutropenia, which usually resolve after discontinuing the medication.
• May increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections such as Salmonella and Clostridium difficile.
• Prolonged use may cause low magnesium levels, leading to symptoms like fatigue or seizures.

Storage: Store Xorel below 30°C in a dry place, out of reach of children.

Common Questions:

• What is Xorel 20 mg Tablet used for? Xorel is used to treat conditions like duodenal ulcers, gastric ulcers, GERD, Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, and to help eradicate H. pylori.

• What are the side effects? Common side effects include diarrhea, headache, and abdominal pain. Serious effects are rare but may involve kidney or liver issues.

• How should I take it? Take Xorel once daily before food. Never exceed the prescribed dose.

• Can I use Xorel during pregnancy or breastfeeding? Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the drug may pose risks.

Quick Tips:

• Take Xorel as prescribed to ensure the best results.
• Do not eat large meals late at night.
• Long-term use may lead to weakened bones or mineral deficiencies; take calcium and magnesium supplements if advised by your doctor.