Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/14/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Protonix
  
• Generic Name: Pantoprazole
  
• Uses: Treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive esophagitis, and conditions involving excessive stomach acid such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
  
• Drug Class: Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)
  
• Availability: Prescription only
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Pantoprazole is a medication used to treat damage to the esophagus from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It belongs to a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors, which work by decreasing the production of stomach acid, which causes damage from GERD.

Pantoprazole is used to treat conditions caused by excessive production of stomach acid. This includes:

1. Damage from GERD: Stomach acid from GERD can damage the esophagus, leading to scarring. Pantoprazole decreases the production of stomach acid, allowing the damage to heal.

2. Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: A rare disorder in which the stomach produces too much acid, leading to ulcers and esophageal damage.
   
   

Pantoprazole belongs to a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors. These drugs work by decreasing the production of stomach acid.

Pantoprazole is available in the following forms:

• Delayed-release oral tablets
  
• Oral suspension granules (powder)
  
  

The dosage and length of treatment depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and how you tolerate the medication.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.

Pantoprazole is available in various forms:

• Oral tablets: Available in delayed-release form
  
• Oral suspension granules: Powder form that is mixed with applesauce or apple juice before use
  
  

The oral granules can be sprinkled on 1 teaspoon of cool applesauce and swallowed within 10 minutes. Do not crush or chew the granules. The granules can also be mixed with 1 teaspoon of apple juice and then swallowed. The container should be rinsed with additional apple juice and then swallowed. Do not mix with other liquids or foods, including water.

The dosage and length of treatment depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and how you tolerate the medication.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.

The effectiveness of pantoprazole and the time it takes to notice improvement can vary among individuals. For conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you may start to feel relief from symptoms within a few days, but it can take up to several weeks for full therapeutic effects.

Continue taking pantoprazole as prescribed even if you start feeling better. Do not abruptly stop the medication, as it may lead to a return of symptoms or increased acid production.

While pantoprazole is primarily used for treating conditions involving excessive stomach acid, such as GERD and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe it off-label for other gastrointestinal conditions.

Discuss any alternative uses of pantoprazole with your healthcare provider.

Pantoprazole is available in the following dosage forms:

• Delayed-release tablets: Typically available in 20 mg and 40 mg.
  
• Oral suspension granules: Either sprinkled on applesauce or mixed with one teaspoon of apple juice. Available as a 40 mg dose per packet.
  
  

Generic versions of pantoprazole are available.

Pantoprazole is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.