Rabeprazole works by blocking acid production in the stomach. Aciphex is known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It is used to treat acid-related stomach/intestinal and throat (esophagus) problems (e.g., acid reflux or GERD, ulcers, erosive esophagitis, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). Aciphex may also be used in combination with antibiotics to treat certain types of ulcers caused by bacterial infection.

Take Aciphex by mouth usually once daily, with or without food, or as directed by your doctor.

Do not crush, chew, or split Aciphex. Swallow the medication whole.

If needed, antacids may be taken along with Aciphex.

The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

Use Aciphex regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Continue to take Aciphex for the prescribed length of treatment even if you are feeling better.

Aciphex is generally well tolerated. Although uncommon, headache may occur. If this effect persists or worsens, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: signs of vitamin B-12 deficiency with long-term (over 3 years) treatment (e.g., unusual weakness, sore tongue, numbness or tingling of the hands/feet).

A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.

Before taking Rabeprazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar drugs (e.g., lansoprazole, omeprazole); or if you have any other allergies.

Before using Aciphex, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: severe liver disease, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors).

Some symptoms may actually be signs of a more serious condition. Tell your doctor immediately if you have: heartburn combined with lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain (especially with trouble breathing), pain spreading to arms/neck/shoulders, unexplained weight loss.

Aciphex should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether Aciphex passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

This drug should not be used with the following medication because very serious interactions may occur: atazanavir.

If you are currently using Aciphex, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting Rabeprazole.

Before using Aciphex, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: warfarin.

Rabeprazole can decrease the effectiveness of certain drugs which require stomach acid in order to be absorbed. Before using Aciphex, consult your doctor or pharmacist on how to manage such a potential interaction if you are taking the following drugs: ampicillin, azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), iron supplements.

Rabeprazole may increase the amount of digoxin that is absorbed into your blood. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details if you also take digoxin.

Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store Rabeprazole at room temperature 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom.