About AcipHex (rabeprazole)
AcipHex (rabeprazole) belongs to a class of drugs called proton-pump inhibitors, which decrease the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
Rabeprazole is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), duodenal ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and other conditions that produce excessive stomach acid. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including AcipHex.
Rabeprazole may be prescribed as a delayed-release capsule or tablet. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed rabeprazole, be sure to complete the full course of the proton-pump inhibitor unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the proton-pump inhibitor may not fully treat your condition.
Rabeprazole uses
There are several FDA-approved uses for rabeprazole, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online healthcare professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your doctor may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Rabeprazole is FDA-approved to treat and prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease. It can help heal erosive or ulcerative GERD.
Duodenal ulcers
Rabeprazole is FDA-approved to treat duodenal ulcers. AcipHex also helps eliminate Helicobacter pylori bacteria to prevent the recurrence of ulcers.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Rabeprazole is FDA-approved to treat pathological hypersecretory conditions, including Zollinger-Ellis syndrome.
Rabeprazole side effects
The side effects associated with taking rabeprazole are typically mild. Most rabeprazole side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort. Rabeprazole has some common side effects. They may include:
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Sore throat
Headache
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Severe diarrhea or stomach pain
Signs of kidney problems (dark urine, joint pain, loss of appetite)
Low magnesium
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of AcipHex is approved in pediatric patients over the age of one for the treatment of symptomatic GERD.
How to take rabeprazole
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your rabeprazole prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Rabeprazole can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription label. The starting dose of rabeprazole is typically 20 mg taken once daily. Rabeprazole is usually taken for short-term treatment, which can range from four to eight weeks.
Take AcipHex with a full glass of water. If you're taking this medication to treat duodenal ulcers, take your dose after a meal. If you take AcipHex for any other condition, you can take it with or without soft food.
Rabeprazole can affect the results of certain laboratory tests. Tell laboratory personnel that you're taking rabeprazole before any medical tests.
What to avoid while taking rabeprazole
Rabeprazole has 149 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or herbal or vitamin supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs.
Possible drug interactions with rabeprazole include:
Antibiotics, including amoxicillin and clarithromycin
Digoxin
Diuretics (water pills)
Methotrexate
Warfarin
Talk to your doctor before drinking alcohol. Although alcohol doesn't interact with AcipHex, drinking alcohol may make your stomach problems worse.
Medication alternatives to rabeprazole
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest other proton-pump inhibitors or acid reflux-relieving medications in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Gastroesophageal reflux disease or duodenal ulcers
Zollinger-Ellis syndrome
Rabeprazole prescription FAQs
How much does rabeprazole cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, rabeprazole (20 mg) costs around $31 for 30 delayed-release tablets without insurance. Rabeprazole is a generic brand, and brand names may cost more. Price also varies with insurance coverage. Our prescription discount card helps members save up to 80% on prescriptions.
How can I refill my rabeprazole prescription?
Rabeprazole is only available by prescription, so you will need to see a board-certified doctor to get a refill on your prescription. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.
Who should not take rabeprazole?
To make sure rabeprazole is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
Breathing problems, kidney problems, or an allergic reaction to rabeprazole
Liver disease
Osteoporosis or low bone mineral density
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Low levels of magnesium
How long should you wait to eat after taking rabeprazole?
Take rabeprazole delayed-release tablets or capsules 30 minutes before a meal. Take your oral dose with a full glass of water.
Does rabeprazole have to be taken on an empty stomach?
No, you don't have to take rabeprazole on an empty stomach unless your doctor tells you otherwise. You can take rabeprazole with or without food, but it's best to take your medication before a meal.
How long does it take for rabeprazole to leave your system?
It takes one day for rabeprazole to leave your system.
What happens if I miss a dose of rabeprazole?
If you miss a dose of AcipHex, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I take too much rabeprazole?
If you've taken too much rabeprazole, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
3 simple steps to request your rabeprazole prescription today

Step 1
Book a rabeprazole prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your rabeprazole prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3
Pick up your rabeprazole prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Rabeprazole prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your rabeprazole prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
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$14.99/month
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First visit
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Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Rabeprazole prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Food and Drug Administration. Aciphex prescription label. Accessed on November 28, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/020973s035204736s005lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Rabeprazole (Oral Route). Accessed on November 28, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/rabeprazole-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20066981?p=1
MedlinePlus. Rabeprazole. Accessed on November 28, 2022. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699060.html