Uses
Aciphex is mainly used as treatment for the symptoms of GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, or other conditions which involve excessive build up of stomach acids, such as the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It is also administered for encouraging the healing of the damages on the esophagus, as caused by stomach acid.

How to take Aciphex
Aciphex comes in orally-ingested delayed-release and enteric-coated tablets. Follow treatment as prescribed by a physician, although the normal dose prescription for adults is a 20mg tablet, once a day, from four to eight weeks. The tablet is designed to slowly release the drug in the body, so it should be ingested whole, and not be split, broken, or chewed before swallowing. Take the drug with a tall glass of water, with or without prior food intake.

Side effects
Discontinue use and seek medical help if allergic reactions such as closing of the throat, difficulty in breathing, and swelling of the face, the lips and tongue, or hives are experienced. If effects such as itching, headaches, rashes, an upset stomach, nervousness, diarrhea, and insomnia are experienced, continue drug intake and consult with a doctor.

Drug precautions
Users should inform their doctor of any allergic reaction with any medication, or if they have serious liver illness; they may require special dose adjustments or tests for safe intake. Certain conditions require a combination of Aciphex and antibiotic treatments. Users should follow the doctor's directions carefully in order to obtain the best benefit. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with their doctor before taking on the medication.

Drug interactions
Drugs which may interact with Aciphex include warfarin, cyclosporine, and ketoconazole. Other medications may also interact with Aciphex; potential users should inform their doctor of any drug which they are currently taking.

Overdose
In such cases users are advised to seek medical help. Indications of an overdose in Aciphex are currently unknown.

Missed dose
In cases of a missed dose, take it as soon as possible, on the condition that the succeeding dose is not due for some time. Otherwise, skip the missed dose altogether, and wait for the next one, as directed by the intake schedule. Never take extra doses to compensate for the missed dose.

Storage
Store the medicine away from heat and moisture, in room temperatures between 59°F and 86°F.