Brand Names:

Prevacid

What is it?

Lansoprazole turns off the acid producing cells in your stomach

What’s In It For Me?

This drug can prevent heartburn (acid reflux). It can also be used to cure or prevent and ulcer.

The Good

Lansoprazole and other drugs like it are the most effective way to treat problems related to stomach acid. Note, however, that it must be taken regularly to work. It is not useful on an as neeed basis.

The Bad

Lansoprazole does not provide quick relief, it takes over 24 hours to work. Also, stomach acid is beneficial in some ways, so decreasing stomach acid can lead to poor absorption of vitamins and minerals and possible even bacterial growth in the stomach.
Diarrhea occurs in about 8% of people taking this drug.

The Controversial

Lansoprazole and other drugs like it are sometimes used to prevent ulcers from drugs like Motrin. It is difficult to decide which patients should get such preventative treatment.

For The Cynic

Many times heartburn can be treated with non-drug lifestyle changes.

For The Cost

Lansoprazole is very expensive. The price will drop as it becomes available as a generic.

The Bottom Line

Lansoprazole is very effective, but omeprazole is equally effective and much cheaper