Information on Acid Reflux Drugs Aciphex & Protonix

Aciphex and Protonix are proton pump inhibitors (PPI's) that are prescribed for the treatment of acid-related conditions such as heartburn, GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) and erosive esophagus conditions. A main purpose of these medications is to decrease the production of stomach acid.

Aciphex Usage

• Aciphex (Generic Name: rabeprazole) is a medication used to reduce stomach acid. It is prescribed to treat GERD and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, the latter of which is a condition that involves an over production of stomach acid. GERD is a disease of the digestive system whereby stomach acid and sometimes bile backs up into the esophagus.

Protonix Usage

• Protonix (Generic Name: pantoprazole) is a medication that is also prescribed to reduce the amount of production of stomach acid. Like Aciphex, Protonix is also prescribed to treat Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, but is also prescribed to treat an erosive esophagus condition.

Aciphex Side Effects

• An allergic reaction to Aciphex can include difficulty breathing, and swelling of tongue, throat, face or lips as well as hives. More mild side effects include an upset stomach, diarrhea, headache, rash, itching, nervousness or insomnia.

Protonix Side Effects

• An allergic reaction to Protonix includes all of the reactions listed for Aciphex. Less severe reactions include stomach pain, gas, headache, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

Differences between Aciphex and Protonix

• In regards to the overall healing and improvement in symptoms, there are no significant differences between Aciphex and Protonix, according to the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders.