Lansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor and is used to reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

Lansoprazole is used to treat gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, helicobacter pylori infection, Zollinger Ellison syndrome and dyspepsia

Lansoprazole reduces acid production in your stomach.

Acid is produced in your stomach to help with the digestion of food and to kill bacteria. The acid in the stomach is produced by a proton pump. Because of the acid environment in the stomach, the body produces a mucous barrier which lines the stomach and acts as a protective layer. If this barrier breaks down, the acid can damage the stomach wall and cause pain and discomfort in the stomach.

Some people may have a "leaky sphincter" or valve, which is the band at the top of the stomach and beneath the food pipe, which seals the stomach closed. When this leaks acid can escape from the stomach and irritate the foodpipe causing heartburn.

The recommended dose of Lansoprazole is 15- 30mg per day.

However this varies according to the severity of your particular condition.

It is best to discuss this medication with your Doctor or Pharmacist.

Possible side effects are tummy upset including nausea, tummy ache, wind (flatulence), diarrhoea, constipation, headache, feeling tired, dry mouth or an itchy skin rash

It is best to avoid alcohol with Lansoprazole

It is best not to take Lansoprazole whilst pregnant as there haven't been detailed trials checking its safety in pregnancy.

Manufacturers advise Lansoprazole is avoided when breastfeeding