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When is Protonix indicated for use?

Protonix belongs to a group of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors. These medications are used to inhibit the secretion of gastric acid and they are used in treating and managing conditions that cause or are caused by overproduction of stomach acid (also known as gastric acid).  The primary use of Protonix is in short-term treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, more commonly known as GERD. This medical condition is caused by stomach acid coming up to the esophagus, due to changes in the barrier which is positioned between one’s stomach and esophagus. When gastric acid comes up into the esophagus, it can cause erosion and ulceration of esophagus which most commonly results in heartburn. It is the most common upper gastrointestinal condition and Protonix is one of the most efficient proton pump inhibitors on the market, especially when it comes to short-term treatment. The treatment usually lasts for 8 weeks and it can be followed by another 8-week treatment. Once the doctor establishes the way in which your body responds to the treatment, Protonix can also be used for long term use, as a maintenance therapy.

Due to its effect on the production of gastric acid and the inhibition of the same, Protonix can also be employed for treating other conditions that are characterized by overproduction of stomach acid. These include peptic ulcers and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome which is in fact a conjunction of gastric acid overproduction, tumor of the pancreas, also known as gastrinoma and severe cases of peptic ulceration. Most important symptoms of this syndrome include stomach pain, diarrhea, melena, vomiting and weight loss.

Things to keep in mind about the Protonix treatment

Your doctor will decide whether Protonix is the best course of action in your case and you need to follow the instructions they give you. You need to take this medication in the exact doses, following the exact schedule and the exact duration of the treatment. You should never make any changes without first consulting your doctor. If you are using Protonix for longer periods of time, you should take care that you do not develop vitamin B-12 deficiency as Protonix has an effect on the way your body absorbs this vitamin from the diet. The symptoms of this deficiency include weakness, pale skin, tiredness, shortness of breath, weakness and increased heart rate. You may need to take vitamin supplements to prevent this. Also, keep in mind that taking v can cause you to be positive for THC, the main component in of cannabis. You need to tell the medical staff conducting the tests about your Protonix treatment. Serious side effects of Protonix are not expected and the minor ones include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, gas, diarrhea, joint pain, dizziness and headaches. These are not cause for concern as they will subside in time. Also, be aware that Protonix can have an effect on how your body absorbs some medications and you need to consult your doctor about these interactions as well.