Last updated on March 29th, 2022 at 08:52 am
Protonix (Pantoprazole): is a proton pump inhibitor used to treat certain stomach and esophageal problems (such as acid reflux). It works by decreasing the amount of acid your stomach makes. This medication relieves symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and persistent cough.
It helps heal acid damage to the stomach and esophagus, it helps prevent ulcers, and may help to prevent cancer of the esophagus. Protonix belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Hospitalized patients are placed on Protonix to decrease the risk of stomach ulcers while in the hospital. Stress, medications, etc can all be very hard on the stomach. Protonix is prescribed as GI prophylaxis.
Dose: Usually 20mg IV/PO/NG
Note that IV doses can range from 20-80mg.
If you are giving 20-40 IV it must be reconstituted with 10ml NS (but D5W or LR can also be used). 20mg is usually given over 2 minutes IVP in a dedicated line.
If giving higher dosage please check with your facility policy and procedures for the reconstitution guidelines. 40mg can be reconstituted with 10 ml of NS. 80mg is sometimes reconstituted with 80ml’s of NS.
Of note: an inline filter was used to give Protonix IV up until 2004 at this time a new formulation replaced the old formulation and an inline filter was no longer necessary. Some facilities may still require a filter, please consult with the hospital pharmacy and your facilities policy and procedures.
Adverse Reactions:
Common: N/V/D abdominal pain
Severe: Blood dyscrasias
Liver impairment
Rhabdo
Hyponatremia
Pancreatitis
SJS
Cdiff diarrhea
Hypomagnesia (long-term use)
Nursing considerations:
- Oral can be given with or without food.
- Do not crush,
- Avoid taking with ASA or alcohol
- If on long-term therapy, monitor magnesium levels (the FDA defines this as a year or longer).
And this concludes our quick med podcast on Protonix. Information on this medication can be found on our website at www.nursestudy.net under the education tab.
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This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice.
