What is Pantoprazole Gastro Resistant Tablets?
- Pantoprazole: This is the active ingredient in the medication. It works by reducing the production of stomach acid.
- Gastro Resistant: This term refers to the special coating on the tablets. It’s designed to protect the medication from being broken down by stomach acid. This way, the tablet can reach the small intestine, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream and can do its job.
Pantoprazole Gastro Resistant Tablets Uses
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Pantoprazole is often prescribed to manage GERD. This condition is characterized by the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to symptoms like heartburn, acid regurgitation, and chest pain.
- Peptic Ulcers: Pantoprazole can help heal and prevent the recurrence of peptic ulcers. These are sores or lesions that form in the lining of the stomach or the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). They can be caused by excess stomach acid or infection with the bacterium H. pylori.
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: This is a rare condition in which the stomach produces excessive amounts of acid. Pantoprazole can help control acid levels in individuals with this syndrome.
Pantoprazole Gastro Resistant Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
Inhibition of Proton Pump:
- The stomach lining contains specialized cells called parietal cells. These cells have proton pumps that release hydrogen ions (protons) into the stomach, which are essential for the production of gastric acid.
- Pantoprazole is a prodrug, meaning it is inactive until it reaches the acidic environment of the stomach. Once in the stomach, it is activated.
- The activated form of pantoprazole binds covalently (irreversibly) to the proton pump in the parietal cells. This binding inhibits the enzyme’s activity and prevents the release of hydrogen ions into the stomach.
2. Reduction of Gastric Acid Secretion:
- By inhibiting the proton pump, Pantoprazole significantly reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
- This reduction in gastric acid secretion helps alleviate conditions where excessive acid production is problematic, such as in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and other related conditions.
Pantoprazole Gastro Resistant Tablets – Side-effects
- Headache: Some people may experience mild to moderate headaches.
- Nausea or Vomiting: This can occur, especially when starting the medication. If severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider.
- Stomach Pain or Discomfort: Some individuals may experience abdominal discomfort.
- Diarrhea or Constipation: Changes in bowel movements can occur.
