Rabegend Capsule (Enteric Coated Pellets)

Introduction

Rabegend Capsule (Enteric Coated Pellets) 20 mg (Rabeprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drug that reduces stomach acidity used to treat peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and erosive esophagitis. It is usually prescribed with antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection of the stomach or duodenum, H. Pylori. Rabeprazole is also sometimes used to help gastroesophageal reflux disease, esophagitis, heartburn, and other conditions caused by excessive stomach acid.

Uses

Rabeprazole is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive esophagitis, and other conditions caused by excessive gastric acid production. It is also used to treat duodenal ulcers, heartburn, and H. Pylori infections in combination with antibiotics.

Brand Name	Rabegend
Type	Capsule (Enteric Coated Pellets)
Weight	20 mg
Generic	Rabeprazole Sodium
Manufacturer	Legends Pharma
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Rabeprazole works by inhibiting the enzyme H+/K+ ATPase in the stomach, which is responsible for producing stomach acid. By blocking this enzyme, Rabeprazole prevents the production of stomach acid, thereby reducing the acidity of the stomach. This, in turn, reduces Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms and prevents the recurrence of ulcers.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Rabeprazole typically works quickly, usually within 24-48 hours of taking the medication. However, the results may vary depending on the individual and what type of condition is being treated.

Absorption

Rabeprazole is absorbed rapidly and completely in the upper intestine. The maximum plasma concentrations are reached after 0.5-2 hours. It is highly bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin.

Route of Elimination

Rabeprazole is eliminated primarily in the urine and is metabolized in the liver. It has a half-life of approximately 1-2 hours.

Dosage

Active Duodenal Ulcer and Active Benign Gastric Ulcer: The recommended oral dose for both bioactive duodenal ulcer and active benign gastric ulcer is 20 mg to be taken once daily in the morning. Most patients with active duodenal ulcer heal within four weeks. However, a few patients may require an additional four weeks of therapy to achieve healing. Most patients with active benign gastric ulcer heal within six weeks. However, again a few patients may require an additional six weeks of therapy to achieve healing.

Erosive or Ulcerative Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): The recommended oral dose for this condition is 20 mg to be taken once daily for four to eight weeks.

Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease Long-term Management (GERD Maintenance): For long-term management, a maintenance dose of rabeprazole sodium 20 mg or 10 mg once daily can be used depending upon patient response.

Symptomatic treatment of moderate to very severe Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (symptomatic GERD): 10 mg once daily in patients without oesophagitis. If symptom control has not been achieved during four weeks, the patient should be further investigated. Once symptoms have resolved, subsequent symptom control can be achieved using an on-demand regimen taking 10 mg once daily when needed.

Treatment of GERD in pediatric patients 1 to 11 years of age (Less than 15 kg): 5 mg once daily for 12 weeks with the option to increase to 10 mg if inadequate response.

Treatment of GERD in pediatric patients 1 to 11 years of age (15 kg or more): 10 mg once daily for 12 weeks. 

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: The recommended adult starting dose is 60 mg once a day. The dose may be titrated upwards to 120 mg/day based on individual patient needs. Single daily doses up to 100 mg/day may be given. 120 mg dose may require divided doses, 60 mg twice daily. Treatment should continue for as long as clinically indicated.

Eradication of H. pylori: Patients with H. pylori infection should be treated with eradication therapy. The following combination given for 7 days is recommended. Rabeprazole sodium 20 mg twice daily, clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily and amoxicillin 1g twice daily. The usual adult dose for treating:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): 20 to 40 mg twice daily
• Duodenal ulcers: 20 mg once daily
• Erosive esophagitis: 20 to 40 mg twice daily
• H. pylori infections: When used in combination with antibiotics, the dose is 20 mg once daily.

The dose for children and adolescents is based on the patient’s body weight.

Administration

Rabeprazole should be taken 30 minutes before meals, with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet, as this may reduce its effectiveness. It may also be taken with or without food.

Side Effect

Common side effects of rabeprazole may include:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Gas
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Joint pain
• Dry mouth

Toxicity

Overdose of rabeprazole may cause an increase in the side effects listed above, in addition to drowsiness, confusion, blurred vision, and difficulty in concentration. If you think you or someone else may have taken too much rabeprazole, contact a poison control center or seek medical attention immediately.

Precautions

Before taking rabeprazole, be sure to tell your doctor if you have a history of liver, kidney, or heart disease. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take rabeprazole as it may pass through the breast milk and into the baby.

Interactions

Rabeprazole may interact with other drugs such as warfarin, cimetidine, and St. John's wort. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking before taking rabeprazole.

Disease Interaction

Rabeprazole may interact with some medical conditions such as diabetes, liver or kidney disease. Be sure to inform your doctor of any medical condition before taking rabeprazole.

Drug Interaction

Certain drugs may interact with Rabeprazole including antifungal medications, antidepressants, antibiotics, blood thinners, and other medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking before taking Rabeprazole.

Food Interactions

Rabeprazole should be taken 30 minutes before meals, either with or without food. Take the medication as directed by your doctor.

Pregnancy Use

Rabeprazole is considered a pregnancy category C drug, meaning it may not be safe for pregnant women to take. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking rabeprazole, contact your doctor immediately.

Lactation Use

It is not known if rabeprazole passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed while taking rabeprazole, contact your doctor immediately.

Acute Overdose

If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of rabeprazole, contact a poison control center or seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include a rapid or irregular heartbeat, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision.

Contraindication

Rabeprazole is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in patients with known liver disease or in those taking warfarin.

Use Direction

Rabeprazole should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. The usual recommended dose is 20-40 mg twice daily, one hour before meals. The exact dose will depend on the individual and the conditions being treated.

Storage Condition

Rabeprazole should be stored at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

Rabeprazole has a large volume of distribution. After intravenous (IV) administration of a single 40-mg dose to healthy volunteers, the mean volume of distribution was 183 liters (as estimated by the area under the concentration-time curve).

Half Life

The mean half-life of rabeprazole is approximately 1-2 hours. This may vary slightly depending on the individual.

Clearance

Rabeprazole is cleared primarily by the liver. It has a renal clearance of 12–15 mL/min/kg.

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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Rabegend Capsule (Enteric Coated Pellets) 20 mg

1. What is Rabegend Capsule (Enteric Coated Pellets) 20 mg?

Rabegend Capsule (Enteric Coated Pellets) 20 mg is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to reduce stomach acid production. It is commonly prescribed for acid-related conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

2. How does Rabegend Capsule (Enteric Coated Pellets) 20 mg work?

Rabeprazole works by blocking the hydrogen/potassium ATPase enzyme system (proton pump) in the stomach lining, which is responsible for acid production. This leads to a reduction in stomach acid and helps heal acid-related damage.

3. What conditions are treated with Rabeprazole?

Rabeprazole is used to treat:

- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

- Peptic ulcers

- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

- Helicobacter pylori infection (in combination with antibiotics)

- Erosive esophagitis

4. Is Rabeprazole available over the counter?

No, Rabeprazole is a prescription medication and should be used under a doctor's supervision.

5. What forms does Rabeprazole come in?

Rabeprazole is available in:

- Delayed-release tablets

- Enteric-coated tablets

- Capsules

6. How should Rabeprazole be taken?

It should be taken as directed by a doctor, usually:

- Once daily, before a meal

- Swallowed whole with water

- Not crushed or chewed

7. What is the usual dosage of Rabeprazole?

The typical adult dosage varies based on condition:

- GERD: 20 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks

- Peptic ulcer: 20 mg once daily for 6-8 weeks

- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: 60 mg daily (adjusted as needed)

8. How long does Rabeprazole take to work?

Rabeprazole starts working within 1-2 hours but may take a few days for full symptom relief.

9. Can Rabeprazole be taken with other medications?

It may interact with certain drugs, including:

- Warfarin (blood thinner)

- Methotrexate

- Digoxin

- Iron supplements

- Antifungal medications

10. What are the common side effects of Rabeprazole?

Common side effects include:

- Headache

- Nausea

- Diarrhea

- Stomach pain

- Flatulence

11. Can Rabeprazole cause serious side effects?

In rare cases, serious side effects may occur, such as:

- Severe allergic reactions

- Clostridium difficile infection

- Kidney problems

- Low magnesium levels

12. Is Rabeprazole safe for long-term use?

Long-term use may lead to:

- Increased fracture risk

- Vitamin B12 deficiency

- Chronic kidney disease

It should be used long-term only under medical supervision.

13. Can pregnant women take Rabeprazole?

It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor.

14. Is Rabeprazole safe for breastfeeding mothers?

There is limited data on its safety in breastfeeding, so consult a doctor before use.

15. Can Rabeprazole be given to children?

Yes, it is approved for children 12 years and older for GERD, but dosage should be determined by a doctor.

16. Can Rabeprazole be used for GERD?

Yes, it is commonly used to treat GERD and reduce acid reflux symptoms.

17. Can Rabeprazole be used for ulcers?

Yes, it helps heal stomach and duodenal ulcers by reducing acid production.

18. Does Rabeprazole provide immediate relief?

No, it takes a few days to provide full relief. Antacids may be used for immediate relief.

19. How does Rabeprazole compare to Omeprazole?

Both are PPIs, but Rabeprazole may work faster in some individuals and has a different metabolic profile.

20. Can Rabeprazole cause kidney problems?

Long-term use may increase the risk of kidney disease, so monitoring is recommended.

21. Can Rabeprazole cause bloating?

Some users may experience bloating or gas.

22. Does Rabeprazole affect nutrient absorption?

Yes, it may reduce the absorption of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12.

23. Can Rabeprazole be taken on an empty stomach?

Yes, it is usually taken before meals for better absorption.

24. Can Rabeprazole be taken before bed?

It is usually taken in the morning, but some people may be prescribed a nighttime dose.

25. Can Rabeprazole cause constipation?

Yes, constipation is a possible side effect.

26. Can it cause allergic reactions?

Rarely, symptoms may include rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

27. Can it be taken with milk?

Yes, but dairy products do not affect its effectiveness.

28. Is it safe for diabetic patients?

Yes, but it should be taken under medical advice.

29. Can it be taken before exercise?

Yes, if GERD symptoms worsen with activity.

30. Can it cause dizziness?

Dizziness is a rare side effect.

31. Can it be used for stress-induced acidity?

Yes, it helps reduce acid triggered by stress.

32. Can it cause muscle cramps?

Long-term use may lead to low magnesium, causing cramps.

33. Can it be used with probiotics?

Yes, probiotics do not interact with Rabeprazole.

34. Can it be used for nausea?

It helps if nausea is due to acid reflux.

35. Can it be taken with coffee?

Yes, but caffeine may still trigger reflux symptoms.

36. Can it be taken daily?

Yes, as prescribed by a doctor.

37. Does it cause weight gain?

No, it does not directly cause weight gain.

38. Does it affect sleep?

No, but acid reflux symptoms can disrupt sleep.

39. Can it be taken with vitamins?

Yes, but vitamin absorption may be affected.

40. Does it reduce stomach pain?

Yes, if the pain is due to acid.

41. Can it be mixed with water?

No, tablets should be swallowed whole.

42. Can it be taken with ibuprofen?

Yes, but it may reduce ibuprofen absorption.

43. Can it be taken during fasting?

Yes, if needed for acid relief.

44. Can it be used in elderly patients?

Yes, but with caution due to kidney concerns.

45. Is it addictive?

No, it is not habit-forming.

46. Can it cause fatigue?

Fatigue is a rare side effect.

47. Can it be used long-term?

Only if prescribed by a doctor.

48. Can it be used for indigestion?

Yes, if caused by excess acid.

49. Can it be taken with alcohol?

Alcohol may worsen acid reflux.

50. Can it be stopped abruptly?

It should be tapered off under medical supervision.