Liquid antacid available. (Product Spotlight).

Prevacid[R] for Delayed-Release Oral Suspension now is available by prescription, providing greater versatility for residents who have difficulty swallowing capsules. Developed by TAP Pharmaceutical Products, Inc., to treat acid-related disorders (such as gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD], erosive esophagitis, active benign gastric ulcers and other conditions associated with overproduction of stomach acid), Prevacid is the first proton pump inhibitor (PPI) available in this formulation. Data from two clinical trials evaluating Prevacid in 15 mg and 30 mg doses showed that it is absorbed into the bloodstream equally when administered as a capsule or as an oral suspension.

The new Prevacid formulation, available in packets with strengths of 15 mg and 30 mg, eliminates the need to open a capsule. The strawberry-flavored Prevacid packet contents are simply mixed with, two tablespoons of water and stirred well. The suspension should be drunk immediately. The oral suspension packet should not be mixed with other liquids or foods, and the granules should not be crushed or chewed.

Prevacid should not be taken by patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation. The most frequently reported adverse events associated with the drug include diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea.

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