Lansoprazole is generic name of the substance used to treat different problems with excess stomach acid. It is also known under brand names Prevacid, Helicid, Monolitum, Inhibitol or Zoton.
All mentioned products contain Lansoprazole as active substance and all these drugs can be used one instead of another, according to the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Generic drug is usually chemical name of the actual drug in the product, before it was patented and given some brand name (in most cases different than the name of the active ingredient). In general, generic drugs are less expensive than brand name medications.
About Lansoprazole
Lansoprazole belongs to the group of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). This means that the drug works on certain cells in the stomach, affecting the pump producing stomach acid and slowing it down. Lansoprazole turn off the cells or pumps responsible for production of stomach acid and thus causes relief for people suffering from heartburn or gastric reflux. In addition, many people suffering from ulcers may also experience benefits of this medication.
This drug is therefore used as a treatment for patients suffering from: stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and erosive esophagitis. Patients suffering from frequent heartburn episodes may also use this drug to ease their problem. Lansoprazole has been proven efficient in the treatment of different pathological conditions characterized by hyper-secretion of stomach acid, such as Zollinger-Ellis syndrome. The same medications can also be used to treat people suffering from Helicobacter pylori infection and consequent problem with the stomach.
Lansoprazole on the Market
Currently, patients may find generic Lansoprazole on the market, as well as many different brand medications with the same ingredient. This medication may be available as OTC (over the counter) drug, as prescription medication or ordered from the Internet as well.
There are capsules and orally disintegrating tablets of this medication. You may find Lansoprazole 15mg capsules and Lansoprazole 15 mg orally disintegrating tablets, as well as Lansoprazole 30mg capsules and Lansoprazole 30mg orally disintegrating tablets. This medication may be manufactured by: Sandoz, Teva Pharmaceuticals or Mylan Pharmaceuticals, while Tap Pharmaceutical Products Inc. manufactures prescription Prevacid. As mentioned earlier, patients could also find cheaper generic Lansoprazole on the market.
Besides Prevacid (Lansoprazole) there are other medications belonging to the same group of drugs (PPIs) and these medications can be used to treat the same or similar medical conditions such as Lansoprazole or Prevacid.
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