What are the Common Lansoprazole Side Effects?

Lansoprazole is a prescription drug used to treat a number of stomach disorders. Some common lansoprazole side effects include stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and headache. Severe side effects include tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips and tongue, a hive-like rash, or changes in vision. In rare instances, patients may experience dizziness, fainting, numbness in the arm, or ringing in the ears.

Some of the conditions lansoprazole may be used to treat include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers. This is because it is a proton pump inhibitor, which means it decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach. Despite providing relief for gastric issues, the most common lansoprazole side effects deal with the stomach and include stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. In more severe instances, people may vomit up matter that looks like coffee grounds.

Aside from stomach issues, lansoprazole side effects often include breathing problems. This can mean shortness of breath, or a patient may have difficulty catching his breath altogether. In some instances, this breathing issues are accompanied by tightness in the chest area. Many people develop hives or a rash, accompanied by tongue or lip swelling. These symptoms can be potentially life threatening, so those who experience them should seek medical attention promptly.

There are also other rare side effects patients have reported. Dizzy spells may be experienced, sometimes accompanied by fainting. Patients may also feel numbness in one arm or leg or along one side of the body prior to these episodes. A ringing noise in the ears is often experienced during this time as well. People who notice these conditions should seek the advice of a physician in order to rule out more serious problems, such as an impending stroke.

This medication comes in tablet, capsule, or powder form. Those who take capsules may experience different lansoprazole side effects than patients who take tablets or powder. Some of these include dark urine in decreased amounts, chills, confusion, muscle pain, or weight gain. They might also notice they bruise easier than before they began taking lansoprazole.

Before taking lansoprazole, patients should advise their physician on what other medications or nutritional supplements they are currently taking. They should also let him know if they have any allergies, especially to other medications. Doing so can help him determine whether this is the right treatment option and may allow him to give advice on how to reduce the possibility of side effects from taking this drug.