How to Stop Taking Aciphex
Aciphex, also known as rabeprazole sodium, is a prescription time-release caplet for heartburn. Aciphex is usually prescribed in 20 mg tablets and is recommended for adults and children 12 and up who suffer from heartburn. Aciphex is also prescribed for treating duodenal ulcers, but only for short-term use. Because Aciphex is a time-release medication, you should not break up the pill or crush it in any way as it will ruin the integrity of the medication.
Instructions
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Consult your doctor. Only you and your doctor can determine together if Aciphex is not right for you. If you are experiencing side effects, such as swelling of the joints, frequent urination or an allergic reaction like difficulty breathing or a skin rash, contact your doctor.
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Limit your dose. Your doctor may recommend tapering off of your dose, but because Aciphex pills are time-release, you should not break up the tablets. After talking to your doctor about limiting your dose, you may be told to take one Aciphex pill every other day to limit heartburn symptoms before finally discontinuing the medication.
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Take an alternative heartburn remedy. To limit heartburn while getting off Aciphex and before switching to a new medication, mix 2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink after meals. Apple cider vinegar is a commonly used home remedy that purportedly cuts the bad acid from your body and replaces it with good acid. Although apple cider vinegar is not proven by the FDA to work against heartburn, it may help you while you are transitioning between medications.
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Take an additional heartburn medication after tapering completely off of Aciphex. You do not have to continue taking the apple cider vinegar once you have been prescribed a new medication. Your doctor will likely recommend or prescribe another medication based on your medical history and current prescription medications. Other prescription heartburn medications your doctor may prescribe include Zantac, Prilosec, Nexium and Pepcid.
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Monitor your side effects. If you are still experiencing the same side effects or problems that you were with Aciphex, call your doctor and ask if you can discontinue the new prescription.
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Tips & Warnings
Stop taking Aciphex immediately if you develop a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or hives.
References
Resources
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