Lansoprazole

[Dogsaregood]

Hello All, Has anyone had to stop taking Lansoprazole sooner than recommended? I think it’s to prevent an ulcer in the oesophagus after ablation. First 3 weeks were OK but then something happened and ended up spending lots of time in the toilet (sorry). I’m supposed to continue for another 2 weeks but not sure if I can. If I don’t take it for a day I feel better, but if I take it again…back to the toilet (sorry). Not sure what to do. Thoughts? Thank you!

[Jalia]

We are not supposed to advise you to stop taking your meds or otherwise. I've been taking this drug for years with no problems. If I was in your position though I know what I would do !

[CDreamer]

I would go see your GP as soon as possible, it is a well known and documented affect.- I have always refused to take any PPI, although I have been prescribed it many times. My thoughts as to why it has had this affect - your stomach Ph is not acidic enough to break down your food so it will pass straight through but I’m not a researcher or a doctor and just my theory.

I would ask the question - why have I been prescribed this drug? There are some very good reasons why this drug is used short term to help protect the esophagus and stomach but the risks always need to be balanced against the benefits, as any drug.

My choice has always been that if a drug makes me feel ill, unless it is a life preserving drug, then I stop taking it.

[Buffafly in reply to CDreamer]

That’s my theory too, stomach ‘dumps’ food it can’t digest causing problems in small bowel.

[BobD Volunteer]

All I will say is that I hate this family of drugs with a passion as for me, they only ever made things far worse long term . WE can't advise you what to do of course but you have free will.

[Cavalierrubie]

l would let the GP know as he can change the medication for the next two weeks. This is particularly important if you already have stomach issues. There are other drugs to protect the stomach, If you can’t get urgent appointment phone 111 they are very helpful and in some cases can give you a prescription.

[Buffafly]

I had to stop it after a week. Diarrhoea continued, doctor diagnosed bowel infection but didn’t treat. Ended up in hospital with abscess perforating bowel, incredibly lucky it didn’t burst. So not a fan.

[bluepuddy1]

Hello,

In the side effects it does say it causes stomach problems, after having suffered for quite a while and realising it’s not the Apixaban, I saw that and have stopped taking it. The problem has gone away. In your case (I have only recently been diagnosed with AFib) your doctor should advise on an alternative. You should definitely let your doctor know that you have to stop taking it as the effects are very debilitating.