The National Health Service has issued important guidance for people prescribed the common stomach medication lansoprazole, urging them to be vigilant for specific side effects that require immediate medical advice.
Understanding Lansoprazole and Its Uses
Lansoprazole is a type of medicine known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), similar to omeprazole. It is widely prescribed to manage conditions related to excess stomach acid, including persistent heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and stomach ulcers. The drug works by significantly reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
Available only on prescription, it typically comes in capsule or tablet form. Patients are usually instructed to take it once or twice daily, ideally 30 minutes before a meal for the best effect, with the exact dosage tailored to their individual medical needs.
Serious Side Effects Requiring Action
While lansoprazole is effective for many, it can, in very rare cases, cause serious adverse reactions. The NHS now advises that anyone experiencing a combination of an itchy red skin rash and joint pain should call 111 without delay. This specific set of symptoms could indicate a condition known as subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
Other serious side effects that warrant contacting a doctor or 111 include:
- Severe or persistent diarrhoea, which may signal an inflamed bowel.
- Stomach pain that intensifies, potentially pointing to inflammation of the liver or pancreas.
It is crucial to note that these severe reactions are exceptionally uncommon, affecting fewer than one in every 1,000 patients. For general concerns about the medication or more common side effects, speaking with a pharmacist or GP is recommended.
When to Dial 999 for an Emergency
The NHS guidance clarifies that while the aforementioned symptoms are serious, they typically do not constitute a 999 emergency. However, patients should call 999 immediately if they experience signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), 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 lips/tongue turning blue, pale, or grey.
- Sudden confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, or if someone faints and cannot be woken.
For comprehensive information on managing lansoprazole side effects, the NHS advises visiting its official website.
