Rabeprazole Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Rabeprazole is a medication commonly used for the treatment of gastric ulcers, acute gastritis, and chronic gastritis. It works primarily by protecting the stomach lining and increasing blood flow to the gastric mucosa, which helps in the healing process. However, like many medications, it can come with certain side effects that patients should be aware of.

Common side effects include bloating, constipation, thirst, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, belching, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and a sensation of a lump in the throat. These symptoms are usually mild and tend to subside once the body adjusts to the medication.

In some cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as abnormal liver function, gynecomastia (abnormal breast development in men), menstrual irregularities, and allergic reactions. Patients should also be cautious of potential hematological effects, including reduced white blood cell and platelet counts, which can impact the body's ability to fight infections and clot blood properly.

Most adverse effects are temporary and will typically resolve after discontinuation of the medication. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Being informed about possible side effects allows patients to make better decisions regarding their treatment plan and overall health.