PANAZO 40mg Tablets/Enteric-coated

What is PANAZO 40mg

PANAZO 40mg is an enteric-coated tablet formulation that contains Pantoprazole Sodium Sesquihydrate, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It is primarily prescribed to reduce stomach acid production and manage conditions related to acid hypersecretion. PANAZO is commonly used in the treatment of:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
• Peptic Ulcer Disease
• Erosive Esophagitis
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome and other pathological hypersecretory conditions

The enteric coating ensures the active ingredient bypasses the acidic environment of the stomach and dissolves in the small intestine for optimal absorption and efficacy. By suppressing the final step in gastric acid production, PANAZO 40mg offers symptom relief, promotes ulcer healing, and prevents acid-related damage to the gastrointestinal lining.

It is typically prescribed once daily but can be adjusted based on the severity of the condition and physician recommendations. PANAZO is a prescription-only medicine and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

How to use PANAZO 40mg

To ensure the best therapeutic results, it is important to use PANAZO 40mg correctly. Here are key guidelines:

• Dosage Timing: Take the tablet approximately 30 to 60 minutes before a meal, preferably in the morning before breakfast.
• Swallow Whole: Do not crush, chew, or split the enteric-coated tablet, as this can reduce its effectiveness.
• Consistency is Key: Try to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent acid suppression levels.
• With or Without Water: Swallow with a full glass of water to aid in swallowing and absorption.
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up to compensate.

It is important not to stop treatment abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve. Long-term use may be necessary in chronic conditions, but it should be periodically reviewed to assess the need for continued therapy and to avoid potential long-term side effects.

Mode of Action PANAZO 40mg

PANAZO 40mg works through its active ingredient Pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that selectively inhibits the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system at the secretory surface of the gastric parietal cell. This enzyme system, also known as the "proton pump," is the final pathway in the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

• Target Site: The drug is activated in the acidic environment of the parietal cell canaliculi.
• Inhibition Process: Pantoprazole binds covalently to the proton pumps, irreversibly inhibiting acid secretion.
• Duration of Effect: Although the plasma half-life is short (about 1 hour), the duration of acid suppression lasts up to 24 hours due to irreversible binding.
• Gastric pH: This inhibition leads to increased gastric pH levels, thereby creating a less acidic environment conducive to healing.

This mechanism makes PANAZO effective in treating acid-related disorders and preventing complications like esophageal erosion, ulcers, and bleeding.

PANAZO 40mg Interactions PANAZO 40mg

PANAZO 40mg can interact with other medications, which may alter its effectiveness or increase the risk of adverse effects. Important interactions include:

• Antifungals (e.g., Ketoconazole, Itraconazole): Reduced absorption due to increased gastric pH, leading to decreased effectiveness of the antifungal.
• Clopidogrel: Pantoprazole may reduce the activation of Clopidogrel by inhibiting CYP2C19, potentially decreasing its antiplatelet effect.
• Warfarin: Increased INR and risk of bleeding due to slowed metabolism; INR monitoring is advised.
• HIV medications (e.g., Atazanavir, Nelfinavir): Reduced absorption due to elevated pH levels, making them less effective.
• Iron supplements: Absorption may be decreased because iron requires an acidic environment for proper absorption.
• Methotrexate: High-dose methotrexate levels may increase, leading to toxicity. Temporary withdrawal of PANAZO may be considered during high-dose methotrexate therapy.

Always inform your doctor of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to prevent interactions. Do not start or stop any medications without professional guidance.

Dosage of PANAZO 40mg

The dosage of PANAZO 40mg depends on the condition being treated, the patient’s response to the drug, and medical history. Below are general dosing guidelines:

• GERD and Erosive Esophagitis: 40mg once daily for 4–8 weeks. Maintenance therapy may continue at the same dose depending on symptom recurrence.
• Peptic Ulcer Disease: 40mg once daily for 4–8 weeks. In cases of H. pylori-associated ulcers, PANAZO is used in combination with antibiotics.
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Starting dose is typically 40mg twice daily, adjusted based on acid output and clinical response.
• Prevention of NSAID-induced ulcers: 40mg once daily for at-risk individuals using long-term NSAIDs.

Special Populations:

• Renal Impairment: No dose adjustment usually needed.
• Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; may require dose adjustments in severe cases.
• Elderly: No routine adjustment, but monitor for side effects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s dosage recommendations. Do not adjust the dose on your own, even if symptoms improve or worsen.

Possible side effects of PANAZO 40mg

Like all medications, PANAZO 40mg may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and transient, but some may require medical attention.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Abdominal pain or flatulence
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

• Hypomagnesemia (especially with long-term use)
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Bone fractures (hip, wrist, spine) with prolonged use at high doses
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
• Kidney inflammation (interstitial nephritis)
• Liver enzyme elevations or hepatitis

Allergic Reactions:

• Rash, itching, or swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• Severe dizziness or trouble breathing (seek emergency help)

Report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. Periodic monitoring may be required during long-term therapy.

PANAZO 40mg Contraindications PANAZO 40mg

PANAZO 40mg should not be used in the following situations:

• Known Hypersensitivity: Allergic reactions to Pantoprazole, other PPIs, or any excipient in the formulation.
• Co-administration with certain HIV medications: Such as atazanavir or nelfinavir, due to significant reduction in their effectiveness.
• Severe liver disease: Use with caution or avoid in advanced hepatic impairment without monitoring.
• Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy not established in children under 5 years for certain indications.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use only if clearly needed and under medical supervision; limited human data available.

Before starting PANAZO, a complete medical history should be reviewed to assess any risks or contraindications. Alternative therapies may be considered in contraindicated individuals.

Storage of PANAZO 40mg

Proper storage helps maintain the medication's stability and effectiveness. Follow these storage instructions:

• Temperature: Store below 30°C (86°F), away from direct sunlight and heat.
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place. Avoid storing in bathrooms or areas with high moisture.
• Original Container: Retain in its original HDPE jar, tightly closed to protect from air and contaminants.
• Keep Out of Reach: Store safely away from children and pets.
• Do Not Use After Expiry: Check the expiration date on the label and discard expired medication safely.

Do not dispose of unused medication in household garbage or down the drain. Ask your pharmacist about proper disposal methods to protect the environment.