Prevacid for Children: Side Effects, Uses & Safety

Prevacid, also known as lansoprazole, is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by turning off some of the pumps, located in the cells lining the stomach, that produce acid. This reduces the amount of acid the cells produce. Prevacid is usually prescribed for adults but can also be prescribed for infants and children.

Uses

• Prevacid has several uses, but in children, it is most commonly used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

General Side Effects

• Dizziness, headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation and a rash are some side effects associated with Prevacid.

Side Effects in Younger Children

• According to Prevacid's official website, "The most frequently reported side effects with Prevacid in children 12 months through 11 years old were constipation and headache."

Side Effects in Older Children

• Prevacid's official website also reports that children ages 12 to 17 most often experience the side effects of headache, abdominal pain, nausea and dizziness.

How to Obtain Prevacid

• A child's doctor will prescribe Prevacid. You cannot purchase it over the counter.