Dexlansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) indicated for the treatment and maintenance of acid-related gastrointestinal conditions. It is commonly used to relieve heartburn associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), to heal erosive esophagitis (EE), and to maintain healing of the esophagus. This medication works by reducing the production of stomach acid, helping to protect the esophagus and alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.

Dexlansoprazole is used for the healing of erosive esophagitis (EE) of all grades, the maintenance of healed EE, and for the relief of heartburn associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), including symptomatic non-erosive GERD. By reducing stomach acid, it helps protect the esophagus, promotes healing of irritated tissue, and prevents further damage from acid reflux.

This medication contains dexlansoprazole, the R-enantiomer of lansoprazole, which belongs to the proton pump inhibitor (PPI) class. It works by blocking the proton pumps in the stomach lining, reducing gastric acid secretion and providing effective, targeted control of acid-related symptoms.

Dexlansoprazole uses a dual delayed-release (DDR) delivery system, which contains two sets of enteric-coated granules that dissolve at different times in the digestive tract. The first set dissolves shortly after ingestion, providing an initial peak in blood levels to start acid suppression. The second set dissolves several hours later, creating a second peak that extends acid control throughout the day and night. This allows prolonged 24-hour acid suppression with a single daily dose, which can help manage symptoms that occur after meals or during nighttime.

It is important to note that Dexlansoprazole does not provide immediate relief for sudden heartburn. Instead, it is intended for long-term symptom management and esophageal healing. Regular use as prescribed by a healthcare professional is necessary to achieve the best results and prevent recurring symptoms.

This medicine may be indicated by your doctor for:

• Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and relief of associated heartburn.

• Healing and maintenance of erosive esophagitis (EE).

• Relief of heartburn in symptomatic non-erosive GERD.

• Management of acid-related gastrointestinal conditions as directed by your physician.

• Extended Symptom Control: The Dual Delayed-Release technology provides acid control that lasts throughout the day and night.

• Effective Healing: Highly effective at healing the tissue damage in the esophagus caused by severe acid reflux.

• Convenient Dosing: One daily dose can maintain acid control throughout the day and night.

• Well-Tolerated: Generally safe and well-tolerated when used as prescribed.

Dexlansoprazole may cause side effects in some people. Most are mild and temporary, but contact your doctor if they persist or worsen.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain

• Diarrhea

• Gas (flatulence)

• Headache

• Mouth pain or sore throat

• Nasal congestion, sinus pain, or cold‑like symptoms

Uncommon Side Effects

• Dizziness

• Mild skin rash or itching

• Constipation

• Dry mouth

Serious Side Effects (Require Immediate Medical Attention)

• Severe allergic reactions (such as hives, swelling of the face/lips/tongue, or trouble breathing)

• Watery or bloody diarrhea that may be severe (possible infection)

• Low magnesium symptoms (dizziness, irregular heartbeat, tremors, muscle cramps) — more likely with long‑term use

• Signs of kidney problems (rash, fever, nausea, reduced urination)

• New or worsening symptoms of lupus (joint pain, rash worsened by sunlight)

• This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Take Dexlansoprazole exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label.

• Take this medicine once daily, with or without food.

• Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush or chew the capsule or the granules inside.

• If you cannot swallow the capsule whole, you may open it and sprinkle the intact granules on one tablespoon of applesauce. Swallow the mixture immediately without chewing.

• Do not save the applesauce mixture for later use.

Dexlansoprazole works by binding to and inhibiting the proton pumps in the parietal cells of the stomach. By blocking the final step in acid production, it significantly lowers the acidity of the stomach. Its dual delayed-release formulation releases the drug in two distinct phases, extending the time the medication actively blocks acid production.

• Unlike many other PPIs that must be taken strictly 30 to 60 minutes before a meal, dexlansoprazole can be taken at any time of the day, with or without food.

• Do not expect immediate relief. It may take several days of daily use before your symptoms improve significantly.

• If you take this medication for a long time (over 3 years), it may cause a deficiency in Vitamin B12. Talk to your doctor if you develop unusual fatigue or tingling in your hands or feet.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

• Food: No clinically significant interactions. Food does not affect the drug's overall efficacy, though taking it before a meal may provide slightly better control for some patients.

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:

• Medications that depend on stomach acid for absorption (such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, iron supplements, or atazanavir)

• Methotrexate (PPIs can increase methotrexate levels in the blood)

• Warfarin

• Digoxin

This medicine should be used with caution, or avoided, if you have:

• Severe liver disease

• Osteoporosis or a history of bone fractures

• Low blood magnesium levels

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (may worsen or trigger cutaneous lupus)

Your dose will be determined by your doctor based on the condition being treated. For the maintenance of healed erosive esophagitis and relief of heartburn, the typical dose is 30 mg once daily. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line immediately. Serious adverse events were not reported in clinical studies with large, repeated doses.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.