Jointec PLUS

Indications

Acifix is indicated for the treatment of: * Active duodenal ulcer * Active benign gastric ulcer * Symptomatic erosive or ulcerative gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). * Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease Long-term Management (GERD Maintenance) * Symptomatic treatment of moderate to very severe gastro-esophageal reflux disease (symptomatic GERD) * Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome * In combination with appropriate antibacterial therapeutic regimens for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori in patients with peptic ulcer disease.

Pharmacology

Rabeprazole suppresses gastric acid secretion by inhibiting the gastric H+/K+-ATPase at the secretory surface of the gastric parietal cell. Because this enzyme is regarded as the acid (proton) pump within the parietal cell, Rabeprazole has been characterized as a gastric proton-pump inhibitor.

Dosage & Administration

Active Duodenal Ulcer and Active Benign Gastric Ulcer: The recommended oral dose for both bioactive duodenal ulcer and active benign gastric ulcer is 20 mg to be taken once daily in the morning. Most patients with active duodenal ulcer heal within four weeks. Erosive or Ulcerative GERD: The recommended oral dose is 20 mg once daily for four to eight weeks. Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: The recommended adult starting dose is 60 mg once a day. Eradication of H. pylori: Rabeprazole sodium 20 mg twice daily, clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily and amoxicillin 1g twice daily for 7 days.

Side Effects

In general, Acifix is well-tolerated in both short-term and long-term studies. Acifix may sometimes cause headache, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, increased or decreased appetite, muscle pain, drowsiness, dizziness.

Precautions & Warnings

Symptomatic response to therapy with Acifix does not preclude the presence of gastric or oesophageal malignancy. Patients on long-term treatment should be kept under regular surveillance. Proton pump inhibitors, especially if used in high doses and over long durations, may modestly increase the risk of hip, wrist and spine fracture. Severe hypomagnesaemia has been reported in patients treated with PPIs for at least three months.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. Rabeprazole is contra-indicated in pregnancy and during breastfeeding.

Pregnancy & Lactation

US FDA pregnancy category 'C'. Studies in animals have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Rabeprazole is likely to be excreted in human milk.

Storage Conditions

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or pharmacist before starting any medication.