Summary: What is Dexilant? It is a prescription medication used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other stomach-related conditions. By reducing stomach acid, it helps alleviate symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux. This article presents a comprehensive overview of how Dexilant works, its benefits, potential side effects, and important considerations.
If you’ve been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), your doctor may prescribe a medication like Dexilant to help manage your symptoms. But what is Dexilant, and how does it work to treat GERD?
Dexilant, also known by its generic name dexlansoprazole, is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that lessens the amount of acid produced in the stomach. By lowering stomach acid, it helps to prevent and heal damage caused by acid reflux, offering relief from common GERD symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort. In this article, we will explore what Dexilant is, how it functions in the body, its uses, potential side effects, and the considerations to keep in mind when using this medication.
How Does Dexilant Work?
Dexilant belongs to a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These medications work by targeting the proton pumps in the stomach lining, which are responsible for producing stomach acid. By inhibiting these proton pumps, Dexilant reduces the amount of acid in the stomach, helping to control the symptoms of acid reflux and GERD.
In addition to GERD, it is also used to treat conditions such as erosive esophagitis (damage to the esophagus triggered by stomach acid), and it can help inhibit stomach ulcers caused by the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Dexilant’s extended-release formulation ensures that it works throughout the day, providing long-lasting relief from symptoms. This makes it an ideal option for people who experience persistent symptoms of GERD or other acid-related disorders.
Conditions Treated by Dexilant
What is Dexilant used for beyond GERD? Dexilant is prescribed for several conditions that involve excess stomach acid production. Some of the primary uses of Dexilant include:
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
GERD transpires when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. Dexilant helps reduce acid production, preventing heartburn and acid reflux symptoms. It also promotes healing in the esophagus, which can be damaged by prolonged exposure to acid.
Erosive Esophagitis
Erosive esophagitis is a condition where the lining of the esophagus becomes inflamed or damaged due to stomach acid. Dexilant aids in healing the damaged tissue by reducing the acid in the stomach, allowing the esophagus to repair itself.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
This rare condition involves tumors in the pancreas or duodenum that lead to excess acid production. Dexilant can help manage the symptoms of this condition by suppressing stomach acid production.
Stomach Ulcers Caused by NSAIDs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly utilized for pain relief, but they can cause stomach ulcers. Dexilant is sometimes prescribed to prevent or treat these ulcers by lessening the amount of acid in the stomach.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Dexilant?
Like all medications, Dexilant can cause side effects. While not everyone experiences side reactions, it’s important to be aware of potential issues and to discuss them with your healthcare provider if they arise.
Common Side Effects
The most common side reactions of Dexilant include:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Flatulence (gas)
These side effects are usually mild and often go away after a few days of treatment.
Serious Side Effects
In some cases, Dexilant can cause more serious side effects, although these are rare. Serious side effects may include:
- Kidney problems: Dexilant has been associated with kidney issues, including acute kidney injury.
- Bone fractures: Long-term use of PPIs like Dexilant can elevate the risk of bone fractures, especially in older adults.
- Low magnesium levels: Prolonged use of Dexilant may result in low magnesium levels, which can result in symptoms like muscle cramps, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat.
If you experience any of these serious side effects, it’s crucial to contact your doctor immediately.
Long-Term Use Concerns
Long-term use of Dexilant and other PPIs should be carefully monitored by your healthcare provider. Prolonged suppression of stomach acid can lead to issues such as nutrient deficiencies, including vitamin B12 and calcium deficiencies, which can affect bone health.
Dosage and Administration
The recommended dose of Dexilant depends on the condition being treated and the severity of symptoms. For most adults with GERD or erosive esophagitis, the typical dose is Dexilant 60 mg once daily.
Dexilant should be taken as prescribed, usually before a meal. It’s necessary to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure you receive the maximum benefit from the medication.
For individuals with difficulty swallowing capsules, the contents of the Dexilant capsule can be opened and sprinkled onto applesauce for easier ingestion. However, it is crucial to check with your doctor or pharmacist before making any changes to how you take the medication.
Considerations When Taking Dexilant
While Dexilant is generally safe and effective for most people, there are several factors to consider before starting treatment.
Drug Interactions
Dexilant can interact with other medications, including certain blood thinners, antifungal medications, and medications for HIV. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s necessary to discuss the risks and benefits of taking Dexilant with your healthcare provider. Although Dexilant is classified as a category C drug (meaning it may not be safe during pregnancy), your doctor will weigh the potential benefits against the risks.
Dexilant is excreted in breast milk, so if you are breastfeeding, you should consult with your doctor to determine whether Dexilant is appropriate for you.
Kidney Function
If you have kidney problems, your doctor may adjust your dose of Dexilant or recommend an alternative treatment. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary during treatment.
Takeaways
What is Dexilant? Dexilant is a proton pump inhibitor utilized to treat GERD, erosive esophagitis, and other stomach acid-related conditions. By reducing stomach acid, it helps alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux.
While generally safe, Dexilant can cause side effects, including headaches, diarrhea, and more serious issues such as kidney problems or low magnesium levels with long-term use. Always consult your healthcare provider to recognize if Dexilant is the right choice for your condition, and follow their instructions closely for optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Dexilant be taken with other GERD medications?
It is possible to take Dexilant with other GERD medications, but it’s important to check with your healthcare provider to ensure there are no potential interactions.
How long can I take Dexilant?
The duration of Dexilant treatment depends on your condition. Your healthcare provider will guide you on how long to take it and when to reassess your treatment plan.
Is Dexilant suitable for long-term use?
Dexilant can be used long-term for conditions like GERD, but long-term use should be monitored by your healthcare provider due to potential adverse effects such as nutrient deficiencies and kidney problems.
