The National Health Service has issued important guidance for patients taking the widely prescribed stomach medication lansoprazole. Individuals who develop specific symptoms, including an itchy red skin rash and joint pain, are being urged to contact the NHS 111 service for immediate advice.
Understanding Lansoprazole and Its Uses
Lansoprazole is a type of medicine known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), similar to omeprazole. It is commonly prescribed by doctors to treat a range of acid-related stomach conditions. These include persistent heartburn, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), and stomach ulcers.
The medication works by significantly reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, helping to relieve symptoms and promote healing. It is only available on prescription in the UK and is typically taken as a capsule or tablet once or twice daily, ideally 30 minutes before a meal.
Recognising the Serious Side Effects
While lansoprazole is effective for most people, it carries a risk of side effects like all medicines. The NHS emphasises that the vast majority of these are mild. However, there are specific, very rare adverse reactions that require prompt medical attention.
According to official NHS guidance, patients should call 111 or consult their GP if they experience:
- An itchy red skin rash accompanied by joint pain. This combination of symptoms could indicate a rare condition called subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
- Severe or persistent diarrhoea, which may be a sign of an inflamed bowel.
- Stomach pain that intensifies, potentially signalling inflammation of the liver or pancreas.
It is crucial to note that these serious reactions are exceptionally uncommon, affecting fewer than 1 in 1,000 people taking the drug. For general concerns about lansoprazole or its more common side effects, speaking with a pharmacist or your GP is recommended.
When to Dial 999 for an Emergency
The symptoms listed above generally do not constitute a 999 emergency. However, a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to lansoprazole requires an immediate emergency call. Patients, or those near them, must dial 999 if they experience symptoms such as:
- A tight feeling in the throat or difficulty swallowing.
- Sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat.
- Struggling to breathe, very fast breathing, or gasping for air.
- The skin, lips, or tongue turning blue, grey, or pale.
- Sudden confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, or if someone faints and cannot be woken.
The NHS advises anyone with ongoing concerns about their medication to review the full guidance on side effects and their management available on the official NHS website.
