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Chronic Care GERD Protonix
Chronic Care GERD Protonix

Protonix (pantoprazole) prescription available online

If you are suffering from GERD, heartburn, or other issues caused by too much stomach acid, Protonix can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Protonix from a board-certified doctor online.*

Ease GERD and heartburn symptoms Available in tablet or liquid form Request Protonix in as little as 15 minutes, with or without insurance
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
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About Protonix (pantoprazole)

Protonix (pantoprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor that decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach. It can help prevent stomach ulcers and relieve heartburn symptoms with short term use.

Protonix is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation under different brand names, including pantoprazole.

Protonix is usually prescribed as a tablet but also comes in liquid form. 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 Protonix, it is important to take daily, or as directed, in order for the medication to adequately treat and manage your medical issue.

Protonix uses

There are several FDA-approved Protonix (pantoprazole) uses, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.

 

Your doctor may prescribe pantoprazole for the following or other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.

Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD)

Protonix is FDA-approved for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with or without erosive esophagitis. Protonix may help the esophagus heal and prevent further damage when erosive esophagitis is present

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

Protonix is FDA-approved to treat health conditions that cause too much stomach acid, including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, acid reflux, and stomach ulcers. It works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

Protonix side effects

The side effects associated with taking Protonix are typically mild. Individuals taking pantoprazole tablets report a variety of side effects, and side effects may vary from patient to patient.

 

The side effects of Protonix may include:

  • Headache (children and adolescents: >4%; adults: 12%)

  • Dizziness (children, adolescents, and adults: ≤4%), vertigo (children, adolescents, and adults: ≤4%)

  • Stomach pain (children and adolescents: 4%)

  • Nausea or vomiting (children and adolescents: ≤4%), vomiting (children, adolescents, and adults: ≥4%)

  • Diarrhea (children and adolescents: >4%; adults: 9%) 

  • Joint pain (4%)

  • Fever, rash, or cold symptoms (most common in children) (children and adolescents: >4%; adults: ≤2%)


Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

  • Severe diarrhea

  • Severe stomach pain

  • Kidney problems

  • Low magnesium

  • New or worsening symptoms of lupus

  • Allergic reaction


You should call your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Protonix is FDA-approved for children over 5 years of age.

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How to take Protonix

Your doctor will provide you with instructions on how to take your Protonix prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your healthcare professional if you have any questions.

Protonix can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. Pantoprazole tablets come in two strengths: 20 mg and 40 mg.

Your dosage of pantoprazole will vary depending on the reason you're taking the drug. Your healthcare professional may advise you to take Protonix either once or twice a day. Protonix tablets are taken by mouth. Protonix must be taken on an empty stomach. Typically, it is taken first thing in the morning with water after which one waits at least 15 minutes, better 30 minutes, before any food or drink.

What to avoid while taking Protonix

Protonix has several drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs.

 

Possible drug interactions with Protonix include:

 

Alcohol does not affect the way Protonix works. However, it's best to avoid alcohol while taking pantoprazole since alcohol consumption increases stomach acid production. This can irritate your stomach lining and make your symptoms worse.

Protonix can cause false results with specific laboratory tests. Tell your doctor or laboratory personnel that you're taking pantoprazole.

Medication alternatives to Protonix

If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest other proton pump inhibitors to help treat your stomach acid issues. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Nexium (esomeprazole)
Prevacid (lansoprazole)
Prilosec (omeprazole)
Aciphex (rabeprazole)
Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)

Heartburn

Tagamet (cimetidine)
Tagamet (cimetidine)
Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)
Nexium (esomeprazole)
Prevacid (lansoprazole)

Stomach ulcers

Prilosec (omeprazole)
Prevacid (lansoprazole)
Carafate (sucralfate)

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome

Aciphex (rabeprazole) Nexium (esomeprazole)
Prevacid (lansoprazole)

Protonix prescription FAQs

How much does Protonix cost?

Depending on your pharmacy, Protonix delayed-release tablets cost around $1,584 for a supply of ninety 20 mg without health insurance. Fortunately, generic brands like pantoprazole may offer an affordable alternative.

How can I refill my Protonix prescription?

Book a virtual appointment with one of our top-rated board-certified doctors to refill your Protonix prescription. After reviewing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.

Who should not take Protonix?

You should avoid taking pantoprazole if you have certain medical conditions, including:

  • Low magnesium levels

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus

  • Neuroendocrine tumors

  • Osteoporosis

  • Allergic reaction to pantoprazole

What happens if I miss a dose of Protonix?

If you miss a dose of Protonix, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular dosing schedule. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.

What happens if I take too much Protonix?

If you've taken too much Protonix, tell your doctor immediately or call your local poison control center. If you experience severe symptoms, such as severe stomach pain or diarrhea, seek emergency medical help.

Can I buy Protonix (pantoprazole) over the counter?

Protonix (pantoprazole) is only available by prescription and can't be bought over the counter. A qualified doctor will accurately diagnose the cause of your heartburn, acid reflux, or other GI symptoms and determine if Protonix is the best treatment for you. Skipping a doctor's visit can lead to misdiagnosis and potentially mask a more serious condition. Also, PPIs like Protonix can have side effects, especially with prolonged use. Your doctor will prescribe the right dose and duration to minimize these risks. Depending on the root cause of your problem, they can also explore alternative solutions like lifestyle changes or milder medications.

Our board-certified physicians are available 24/7 for convenient online telehealth consultations. You can discuss your symptoms, get a diagnosis, and have a prescription sent to your local pharmacy–all with the convenience of a virtual doctor's appointment.

3 simple steps to request your Protonix prescription today

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Step 1

Book a Protonix prescription request appointment.

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Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Protonix prescription

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your Protonix prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Protonix prescription pricing details

To get a new or refill on your Protonix prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.