What does it do?

Lansoprazole is used to treat and prevent various stomach and gut problems. It reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

How should you take it?

Take lansoprazole regularly as directed.
The capsules should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.
You can open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a small amount of soft food or liquid and swallow without chewing. Do not crush the capsule contents.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with lansoprazole including:

• iron supplements (e.g. Ferro-Tab®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Headache, dizziness Skin rash Stomach upset, diarrhoea	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• If your symptoms are well managed, your doctor may recommend stopping lansoprazole. When you stop you may get symptoms like reflux and heartburn but these should only last for a few weeks. Talk to your health professional if these are troublesome, or if they do not get better.