Protonix (Pantoprazole) Side Effects

The potential for short term or long term Protonix side effects can include a diverse range of symptoms, but most of them are considered very manageable and will subside within the first couple of weeks of treatment. The active ingredient in Protonix is pantoprazole, which is a proton-pump inhibitor used to reduce the production of excess stomach acids that can lead to esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Protonix comes in a granule packet or time release tablet form to be ingested orally, and IV methods are currently a new development. The more common pantoprazole side effects can include symptoms of diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain.

Long term Protonix side effects

Continued long term use of Protonix can result in a vitamin deficiency of B-12, as this medication makes it more difficult for the body to successfully absorb this important nutrient. This can lead to osteoporosis in many cases. In some studies with lab animals, the increased possibilities for tumor development have been noted, although no research is yet available for humans.

Emergent pantoprazole sodium side effects

There are rare cases of some very severe allergic reactions found in patients who are under a treatment program of Protonix. If symptoms of blood in the stool, jerking muscles, seizures, hallucinations, memory lapses, coughing, choking, excessive nervousness or feeling jittery occur, the patient should immediately stop taking the medication and contact their healthcare provider immediately. These symptoms are most often caused by a lack of magnesium which may or may not be easily remedied.