Duopride Tablets

Duopride Tablet is a combination medicine used to treat Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It also relieves acidity & heartburn in conditions such as peptic ulcer disease (stomach ulcer). GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition where acid from the stomach comes up to the food pipe.

This backflow of acid irritates the lining of the food pipe and leads to chest pain and heartburn. Duopride Tablet should be taken as directed by the doctor and in doses and duration as prescribed. Before starting this medicine, inform the doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding and about your detailed medical history.

Dosage

Overdose

In case you have taken too much of Duopride Tablets, do not panic & seek urgent medical help.

Missed a Dose

If you missed any dose of Duopride Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dose schedule. Do not take a double dose of medicine to compensate for the missed one.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

• Duopride Tablet works by the combined action of rabeprazole and itopride.
• Rabeprazole works by inhibiting a pump called the proton pump in the stomach wall, responsible for the secretion of stomach acids for digestion and hence leads to reduced acid production.
• Itopride works by increasing the movement of food in the digestive tract (especially stomach and intestines), thus accelerates emptying of the stomach.

Directions for Use

• Duopride Tablet should be taken as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow it whole with a glass of water, do not cut, break or chew the medicine.
• It would be best if you took it at a fixed time for optimal results.
• You should not consume it more than that prescribed by your doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Duopride Tablet during pregnancy?

Since there is limited information available about the safety of Duopride Tablets in pregnant women, it should be avoided during pregnancy. Please consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Duopride Tablet while breastfeeding?

Duopride Tablet should not be taken while breastfeeding as it is unknown if its components pass into breast milk, thus please contact your doctor before using this medicine if you are a lactating mother.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Duopride Tablet?

Avoid driving if you feel dizzy after taking Duopride Tablet.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Duopride Tablet?

You must avoid consuming alcohol while on treatment as it could worsen your acidity.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You have problems with your liver
• You have a stomach tumour
• You are pregnant or are breastfeeding
• You are taking atazanavir (used in HIV infection) or methotrexate (used in cancer)
• You are an elderly person (above 60 years old)
• You are allergic to similar medicines or have ever had any skin reaction after taking similar medicine
• If you are meant to take Duopride Tablet for long-term; it may lead to a deficiency of vitamin B12 & may also weaken your bones or may slightly increase the risk of fracture
• You may have low levels of magnesium in your blood if you are taking this medicine for more than 3 months
• You are to undergo any blood test (Chromogranin A)

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to rabeprazole, itopride, similar medicines or any other ingredients of Duopride Tablet
• If you are suffering from any blockage, perforation (tear) or bleeding in the intestine or stomach
• If you are pregnant or think that you could be pregnant or breastfeeding

Side effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Flu-like symptoms
• Weakness
• Excess saliva in the mouth

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Some medicines can affect the way Duopride Tablet works or this medicine itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbals you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction.
• Especially if you are taking medicines used to treat HIV infections like Atazanavir, Nelfinavir, Rilpivirine; anticholinergic medicines like atropine, benztropine mesylate, cyclopentolate, dicyclomine; antacids; digoxin used to treat heart failure; blood thinners like warfarin; methotrexate; antifungals such as ketoconazole, itraconazole.

Interactions with food items

Your doctor may suggest you take Duopride Tablet on an empty stomach (at least 30 mins before food).

Storage and disposal

• Store Duopride Tablets in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture and heat.
• Keep it away from children and pets.
• Discard any unused medicine properly, do not flush in the toilet or throw it into the drain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the use of Duopride Tablet?

Duopride Tablet is used in the treatment of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) & stomach ulcers. It helps relieve symptoms like acidity, heartburn & chest discomfort.

Should Duopride Tablet be taken with or without food?

Duopride Tablet should be taken as directed by the doctor. He/she may suggest you take it on an empty stomach (at least 30 mins before food).