Rabekal 20 mg Tablet (Rabeprazole) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Rabeprazole is a drug that reduces the amount of acid your stomach produces by blocking a tiny acid pump in your stomach lining, helping to heal ulcers and relieve heartburn.

What is it used for?

Stomach ulcerheartburn (acid reflux)chest burn from stomach acid (GERD)too much stomach acid (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome)used alongside antibiotics to treat stomach infections caused by H. pylori bacteria

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Diarrhea & Dysentery Ulcer & Stomach Acid

How it works

Inhibits the H+/K+-ATPase proton pump on gastric parietal cells, blocking the final step of gastric acid secretion and reducing intragastric pH to suppress acid-related mucosal damage and facilitate healing.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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Similar drugs

Lansoprazole Rabeprazole Sodium

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How to take this drug

Take one 20 mg tablet once daily, usually in the morning before eating. Swallow the tablet whole with water — do not crush, chew, or break it. For stomach ulcers, your doctor may ask you to take it for 4 to 8 weeks. For heartburn or acid reflux, treatment is usually 4 to 8 weeks.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for it.

What to watch out for

Only buy from a licensed pharmacy — do not purchase from roadside vendors or unregistered sellers, as fake drugs are common. Do not use rabeprazole for more than the period your doctor prescribed, as long-term use can cause low magnesium levels and weaken your bones. If your symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks, go back to your doctor instead of increasing the dose on your own.

Common Side Effects

Headache
stomach pain or gas
diarrhoea
nausea or feeling like you want to vomit
dizziness

Serious Side Effects

Severe watery diarrhoea that won't stop (could be a serious gut infection)
signs of kidney problems like swelling in your legs or very little urine
bone fractures or severe joint pain especially if used for a long time — see a doctor immediately if you notice any of these.

Drug Interactions

Rabeprazole can reduce how well some HIV drugs (like atazanavir) and blood thinners (like warfarin) work, so tell your doctor about all your medications. It can also affect how your body absorbs methotrexate (used for arthritis and some cancers). Alcohol can worsen stomach acid problems, so it is best to reduce or avoid alcohol while on this drug.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Rabeprazole is not proven safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — consult your doctor before using it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to rabeprazole or similar drugs like omeprazole and esomeprazole
people taking HIV drugs like rilpivirine or atazanavir
and anyone with severe liver problems should not take this drug without a doctor's guidance.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it near windows or in your car. Keep the tablets in their original pack and away from children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Rabekal 20 mg