Dexilant Side Effects

by on July 11, 2012

Summary

The most commonly reported side effects of Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole) are; upper respiratory tract infection, vomiting, stomach pain, nausea, gas, diarrhea and symptoms of the common cold. These side effects are not usually considered serious however, if they persist or become bothersome you should talk to your doctor about alternative solutions.

Common Dexilant Side Effects

The most common Dexilant side effects include the following:

  • Upper respiratory tract infection
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Gas
  • Diarrhea
  • Cold symptoms such as stuffy nose or sneezing.

The side effects listed above usually do not require medical attention as they will commonly diminish when your body adjusts to the medication. Your doctor may also be able to advise you of ways to reduce or prevent these common side effects from occurring. However, if any persist or become bothersome you should notify your doctor to discuss alternative solutions.

Serious Dexilant Side Effects

Proton pump inhibitor medications can increase the risk of a bone fracture in the spine, wrist, or hip. Fractures of this type have most often occurred in individuals who were taking the medication on a long term basis or in high dosage amounts; people ages 50 and older were also more prone to fracture. This medication could temporarily mask the subtle signs of a heart attack. You should seek emergency medical help if you experience the following symptoms, they could be the first signs of a heart attack; pain or a heavy feeling in your chest, pain that spreads to your shoulder or arm, sweating, nausea, or an overall ill feeling.

Allergic Reactions

An allergic reaction can occur with Dexilant. If you experience any of the following symptoms that indicate an allergic response, get emergency medical help right away.

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Hives
  • Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Tightness of the chest
  • Unusual hoarseness
Other Serious Side Effects

Other side effects can occur that are very serious but are not indicative of an allergic reaction. If you experience any of the following side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

  • Chest pain
  • Numbing of extremities
  • Depression
  • Vision changes
  • Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Seizures
  • Shortness of breath
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness
  • Swollen, blistered, or peeling skin
  • Sudden severe vomiting or dizziness
  • Joint pain, swelling, or tenderness
  • Sore throat
  • Bone pain
  • Calf pain, swelling, or tenderness

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or may become pregnant before taking dexlansoprazole. This medication has been placed in category B by the FDA, which means it is unlikely that it will be harmful to an unborn child. It is not known if this drug passes through breast milk or if it is harmful to a newborn; you should weigh the potential benefits against potential risks with your doctor before breastfeeding while taking Dexilant.

You should also notify your doctor if you have low levels of magnesium in your blood, liver disease, osteoporosis, or osteopenia; these conditions may require special tests or dosage adjustments to ensure your safety while taking Dexilant.

Other Medications

It is important to tell your doctor about all over the counter, prescription, and herbal medications you are taking prior to starting a new one. Notify your doctor if you take any of the following medications as they could cause a dangerous interaction to occur.

  • Atazanavir
  • Digoxin
  • Ampicillin
  • Tacrolimus
  • Ketoconazole
  • Iron
  • Diuretics
  • Blood thinners such as warfarin

Dexilant may be useful in treating conditions associated with excess stomach acid being released into the esophagus. The medication is available in a capsule form that offers two release times; directions for using this drug should be followed precisely in order to avoid releasing too much medication at once. If you experience any serious side effects or if a common effect becomes bothersome, contact your doctor to discuss possible solutions.