What Are the Dangers of Taking Aciphex for Too Long?
Rabeprazole is sold under the commercial brand Aciphex. Rabeprazole is a proton-pump inhibitor which reduces the production of acid in the stomach. Aciphex is a prescription medication and should only be taken under the specific dosage instructions of your doctor.
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Uses
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Aciphex is used to treat Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disorder and duodenal ulcers. It can also be used to help heal the erosive effects of acid reflux on the esophagus.
Dosage
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Usually Aciphex is prescribed as a once-daily 20 mg tablet to be taken for four to eight weeks. Some conditions may lead it to be prescribed for a longer period time for certain conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
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Hip Fractures
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One of the dangers with taking Aciphex--or any proton-pump inhibitor--too long is the increased risk of hip fractures in older adults, according to a study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
B12 Deficiency
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A University of Colorado Health Sciences Center study found that long-term use of proton-pump inhibitors in elderly adults resulted in a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Considerations
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The dangers of taking Aciphex on a long-term basis should be discussed with your physician if you have any concerns.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Bruce
