PANTOR 40 Tablets/Delayed Release

What is PANTOR 40

PANTOR 40 is a gastro-resistant tablet containing Pantoprazole (as Sodium Sesquihydrate), a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to reduce the production of stomach acid. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Helicobacter pylori eradication (in combination with antibiotics)
• Acid-related dyspepsia or heartburn

By reducing gastric acid secretion, PANTOR 40 helps relieve symptoms like heartburn, acid reflux, and pain associated with ulcers, while promoting healing of the gastric mucosa.

How to use PANTOR 40

To ensure effective and safe use of PANTOR 40:

• Take the tablet approximately 30 to 60 minutes before a meal, preferably breakfast.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water—do not crush, chew, or split it.
• Follow your doctor's prescribed duration and dosage; do not self-adjust the dose.
• Do not take with antacids or other acid-suppressing medications unless advised.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip it—never double dose.

Consistent use is crucial for optimal results. Inform your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment.

Mode of Action PANTOR 40

PANTOR 40 (Pantoprazole) works by:

• Inhibiting the H⁺/K⁺ ATPase enzyme (the proton pump) located on the parietal cells of the stomach lining.
• This action irreversibly blocks acid secretion into the stomach lumen, reducing gastric acidity significantly.
• Pantoprazole is activated in the acidic environment of the parietal cell canaliculi, making its action selective to acid-secreting tissues.

The reduction in gastric acid allows for healing of acid-induced damage to the esophagus and stomach lining, and improves associated symptoms.

PANTOR 40 Interactions PANTOR 40

PANTOR 40 may interact with several medications. Important interactions include:

• Antiretrovirals: May reduce absorption of drugs like atazanavir, leading to decreased efficacy.
• Antifungals: Absorption of ketoconazole and itraconazole may be reduced due to lower stomach acidity.
• Warfarin: May enhance anticoagulant effects, requiring monitoring of INR levels.
• Clopidogrel: May reduce antiplatelet effect, though clinical relevance is debated.
• Methotrexate: High-dose methotrexate clearance may be reduced, increasing toxicity risk.
• Digoxin: Risk of increased digoxin levels when used concurrently with pantoprazole.

Always disclose all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies to your healthcare provider before starting PANTOR 40.

Dosage of PANTOR 40

The dosage of PANTOR 40 should be individualized based on the medical condition:

• GERD: 40 mg once daily for 4–8 weeks.
• Maintenance in GERD: 20–40 mg once daily.
• Duodenal ulcers: 40 mg once daily for 2–4 weeks.
• Gastric ulcers: 40 mg once daily for 4–8 weeks.
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Starting dose of 40 mg twice daily, titrated based on gastric acid output.

Always follow physician recommendations regarding dose adjustments and treatment duration. In patients with hepatic impairment, dosage adjustments may be necessary.

Possible side effects of PANTOR 40

While generally well-tolerated, PANTOR 40 may cause the following side effects:

• Common: Headache, nausea, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhea, dizziness.
• Less Common: Constipation, dry mouth, joint pain, skin rash.
• Serious (rare):
  • Hypomagnesemia (especially with prolonged use)
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
  • Liver enzyme elevation or hepatitis
  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis, angioedema)

Seek medical attention if severe symptoms or allergic reactions occur. Periodic monitoring is advised during long-term use.

PANTOR 40 Contraindications PANTOR 40

PANTOR 40 should not be used in the following cases:

• Known hypersensitivity to Pantoprazole or any other proton pump inhibitor.
• Severe hepatic impairment without appropriate monitoring.
• Patients with suspected gastric malignancy (symptom relief may delay diagnosis).
• Concurrent use with drugs contraindicated with PPIs unless clearly justified.

Special caution is needed in elderly patients, those with osteoporosis (risk of fractures), and individuals on long-term therapy without regular assessment.

Storage of PANTOR 40

To preserve the quality and efficacy of PANTOR 40:

• Store below 25°C (77°F).
• Keep in original blister pack until time of use to protect from moisture and light.
• Do not use after the expiry date stated on the packaging.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Do not dispose of unused medication in wastewater or household trash. Consult your pharmacist on proper disposal procedures.