PANTOZOL 20mg Tablets/Gastro-Resistant

What is PANTOZOL 20mg

PANTOZOL 20mg is a gastro-resistant tablet containing Pantoprazole (as sodium sesquihydrate), a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It is used to treat acid-related stomach and esophageal conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and erosive esophagitis. It helps reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach, offering relief from symptoms like heartburn, acid regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.

• Generic Name: Pantoprazole (as sodium sesquihydrate)
• Brand Name: PANTOZOL 20mg
• Form: Gastro-resistant tablets
• Indications:
  • Treatment of GERD and acid reflux
  • Healing of erosive esophagitis
  • Prevention of gastric ulcers caused by NSAIDs
  • Management of hypersecretory conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

How to use PANTOZOL 20mg

Proper usage of PANTOZOL 20mg ensures optimal efficacy and minimizes potential side effects. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely.

• Take the tablet once daily, preferably in the morning before breakfast.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush or chew, as the gastro-resistant coating protects the drug from stomach acid.
• Continue taking the medication for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve early.
• Do not take antacids within 1 hour before or after taking PANTOZOL without medical advice.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they may worsen your condition.

Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 14 days of use or if you experience severe abdominal discomfort, vomiting blood, or black stools.

Mode of Action PANTOZOL 20mg

Pantoprazole, the active ingredient in PANTOZOL 20mg, belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). It acts by irreversibly inhibiting the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system (proton pump) in the gastric parietal cells.

• Target Site: Parietal cells of the stomach lining
• Action: Inhibits the final step of gastric acid production
• Effect: Significant reduction in gastric acid secretion, both basal and stimulated
• Onset: Relief typically begins within 24 hours of the first dose
• Duration: Acid suppression can last up to 24 hours per dose

This reduction in acidity promotes healing of inflamed or ulcerated esophageal and gastric mucosa and helps relieve symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation.

PANTOZOL 20mg Interactions PANTOZOL 20mg

Pantoprazole may interact with other medications, potentially altering their absorption or effect. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications and supplements they are taking.

• Drugs affected by gastric pH:
  • Ketoconazole, itraconazole – absorption may be reduced
  • Atazanavir – may be less effective due to decreased absorption
• Anticoagulants: Warfarin – increased risk of bleeding; monitor INR levels
• Clopidogrel: May reduce its antiplatelet effect; use with caution
• Methotrexate: High-dose therapy may result in elevated serum levels and toxicity
• Iron supplements: Reduced efficacy due to lowered gastric acidity

Always review your medication list with a healthcare provider when starting or stopping PANTOZOL 20mg.

Dosage of PANTOZOL 20mg

The dosage of PANTOZOL 20mg varies depending on the condition being treated. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage regimen by a qualified medical professional.

• For GERD: 20mg once daily for 4-8 weeks
• Maintenance therapy: 20mg once daily as needed to prevent recurrence
• Prevention of NSAID-induced ulcers: 20mg once daily during NSAID therapy
• Special populations:
  • Elderly: No dosage adjustment usually needed
  • Hepatic impairment: Use with caution and medical supervision
  • Renal impairment: No adjustment typically required

Do not increase the dose or take it more frequently than prescribed. Use for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms.

Possible side effects of PANTOZOL 20mg

Like all medications, PANTOZOL 20mg may cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are mild and transient.

• Common side effects:
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Abdominal pain or bloating
  • Nausea and vomiting
• Less common:
  • Dizziness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Joint pain
• Serious (rare):
  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
  • Liver function changes (jaundice)
  • Low magnesium levels – cramps, palpitations, or seizures
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use

Contact your doctor if you experience severe or persistent side effects.

PANTOZOL 20mg Contraindications PANTOZOL 20mg

PANTOZOL 20mg is generally well tolerated but is contraindicated in certain individuals. Always consult your healthcare provider before use.

• Allergy: Known hypersensitivity to pantoprazole, substituted benzimidazoles, or any tablet component
• Severe hepatic impairment: Use only if benefits outweigh risks and under strict medical supervision
• Co-administration with atazanavir: Can significantly reduce effectiveness of the antiviral
• Children under 12 years: Safety and efficacy not established for this dose

Special caution is required in patients with:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Osteoporosis or risk of fractures
• Long-term treatment requiring periodic monitoring

Storage of PANTOZOL 20mg

Proper storage ensures the effectiveness and safety of PANTOZOL 20mg tablets.

• Store at: 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F)
• Keep in original packaging: Protect from moisture and direct sunlight
• Do not freeze: Store in a dry, cool place
• Keep out of reach of children: Use childproof containers if possible
• Check expiration date: Do not use beyond the stated shelf life

Dispose of unused or expired medicine according to local pharmacy or environmental guidelines. Do not flush tablets down the toilet unless instructed to do so.