Acirab 20mg Tablet

Acirab Tablet contains rabeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) indicated for reducing stomach acid production. It is used to alleviate acidity and heartburn symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The medication also treats stomach and intestinal ulcers that result from acid reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, a condition characterized by excessive acid secretion.

Rabeprazole works by specifically blocking the action of proton pumps located in the cells of the stomach lining. These pumps are responsible for secreting hydrochloric acid into the stomach. By inhibiting these pumps, Acirab Tablet effectively decreases the overall amount of acid produced, which helps to relieve symptoms, prevent further acid-related damage, and promote the healing of existing ulcers in the digestive tract.

Dosage

Overdose

The symptoms of an overdose with Acirab Tablets are similar to the side effects in the body. So, if you have consumed a higher dose or think you may have taken too much of the medicine, do not panic and contact your doctor or visit the nearby hospital.

Missed a Dose

Missing a dose of Acirab may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

• In an average healthy individual, specific cells in the stomach get stimulated and release acid after intake of food. In certain individuals, the stomach wall secretes an excess of acids and lead to acid-related stomach problems such as ulcers.
• Acirab Tablet blocks the activity of certain processes in the stomach walls known as proton pumps thus acid release in the stomach decreases and this helps in the healing of ulcers and improves symptoms such as acidity and heartburn.

Directions for Use

• Acirab Tablet should be taken as prescribed by your doctor.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not cut, break, or chew the medicine.
• It should be taken without food, preferably 30 minutes before a meal.
• For consistent results, take the medicine at a fixed time each day.
• Do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take the Acirab Tablet during pregnancy?

You should not take the Acirab Tablet during pregnancy. If you think you may be pregnant and happen to be taking this medicine, consult your doctor immediately.

Breast Feeding

Can I take the Acirab Tablet while breastfeeding?

You should not take the Acirab Tablet while breastfeeding. Your doctor will prescribe you safer alternatives.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed the Acirab Tablet?

There are chances of drowsiness and dizziness with the Acirab Tablet. Therefore, it is not advisable to drive or use heavy machinery while taking treatment with this medicine.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with the Acirab Tablet?

Drinking alcohol when you are taking this medicine does not affect the way it works. However, you must avoid drinking large quantities of alcohol as it is known to increase acidity and can make your stomach disease worse.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You have stomach pain, indigestion and problems in swallowing, family history of stomach cancer.
• You vomit food or blood or you are passing black stools.
• You have a skin reaction after taking similar medicine.
• You are experiencing frequent diarrhoea.
• You have a liver function problem.
• You are experiencing symptoms like painful joints, skin rashes and tiredness.
• You are to undergo any blood test (Chromogranin A).
• You are expected to take this medicine for a longer duration as there are several risks associated with that.
• The long term treatment with the Acirab Tablet may lead to a deficiency of vitamin B12 which can produce symptoms like pale skin, sore tongue, weakness, headache, disturbed vision and irritability.
• The long term treatment of this medicine may also weaken your bones or may slightly increase the risk of fracture.
• In some patients with ulcers, the course of this medicine may take 1 to 3 months. Do not stop the medicine on your own.
• Acirab Tablet is not recommended for use in children.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to rabeprazole or any other ingredients of Acirab Tablet.
• If you are pregnant or think that you could be pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Side effects

• Sleeplessness
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Stomach discomfort

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Acirab Tablet may interact with other medicines, discuss with your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbal preparations you are taking. Also, you should inform your doctor if you have a planned surgery or vaccination scheduled.
• Concomitant use of the Acirab along with medicines used to treat HIV infections like Atazanavir, Nelfinavir, Rilpivirine or use of antacids should be avoided as rabeprazole may decrease the effectiveness of these medicines.
• There can be increased chances of getting side effects if you are taking a medicine containing Digoxin used to treat heart failure along with Acirab Tablet, especially in elderly patients.
• Concomitant use of anticoagulants like Warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding and ulcers.
• Other medicines like Methotrexate and antifungals such as Ketoconazole or Itraconazole should be used cautiously, as it can alter the effects of the Acirab Tablet.

Interactions with food items

Acirab Tablet should not be taken with food or milk. You should take it 30 minutes before food. As food decreases the effectiveness of rabeprazole medicine.

Storage and disposal

• Store Acirab Tablet below 25°C, protected from direct sunlight, moisture and heat.
• Keep it out of the sight and reach from children and pets.
• Do not use expired medicines.
• Discard any unused medicine properly. Do not flush in the toilet or throw it into the drain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do I get B12 deficiency with Acirab?

The absorption of vitamin B12 and vitamin B12 stores in the body can get affected by the long term use of Rabeprazole. Rabeprazole reduces the absorption of vitamin B12 from the stomach due to its stomach acid, reducing effects and can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Why should older people be cautious while using the Acirab?

Acirab Tablet produces bone weakness and can increase the risk of getting fractures in elderly patients if taken in high doses for long term treatment.

Can I take the Acirab Tablet on an empty stomach?

Yes, you can take the Acirab Tablet on an empty stomach. You should preferably take this medicine in the morning on an empty stomach for better stomach acid regulation throughout the day.

Can Acirab Tablet be used in children?

Acirab Tablet is not recommended for use in children.

How to take Acirab Tablet?

Acirab Tablet should be taken as a whole with a glass of water, preferably 30 mins before your first meal or breakfast or as advised by your doctor.

Is Acirab safe to use during pregnancy?

You should not take the Acirab Tablet during pregnancy. If you think you may be pregnant and happen to be taking this medicine, consult your doctor immediately.

What is Acirab used for?

Acirab Tablet is used to provide relief from acidity and heartburn due to stomach acid reflux. It is also used to treat stomach and intestinal ulcers caused due to acid reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.