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Lansoprazole
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Lansoprazole gastro-resistant capsules are a highly effective proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medication containing the active ingredient lansoprazole, designed to provide long-lasting relief from acid reflux, heartburn and GORD by significantly reducing the production of excess stomach acid.
- Available in multiple strengths for tailored acid suppression
- Clinically proven to heal stomach ulcers and oesophagitis
- Offers 24-hour protection against indigestion
- Suitable for long-term management of chronic conditions
More information
"Lansoprazole is a cornerstone treatment for patients suffering from acid-related disorders, including gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), peptic ulcers, and dyspepsia. Specifically inhibiting the gastric proton pumps, it prevents the overproduction of acid at its source, allowing the delicate lining of the oesophagus and stomach to heal effectively. It is particularly useful for those who find that standard antacids no longer provide sufficient relief from persistent heartburn." — Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)
You can buy lansoprazole online securely through Mail My Meds by completing a simple, confidential consultation that is reviewed by a UK-registered prescriber. Once your consultation is approved, your medication is dispensed and shipped discreetly to your door from our registered pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560). This process ensures you receive the correct treatment safely without the need for a face-to-face GP appointment.
Our pricing for lansoprazole capsules is competitive and transparent, and depends on the pack size and strength required. We offer both 15mg and 30mg gastro-resistant capsules to ensure you can access the exact dosage recommended for your symptoms at a value-for-money price point.
We provide multiple delivery options to suit your schedule, including next-day delivery for those requiring urgent symptom relief. All orders are sent in plain, discreet packaging to ensure your privacy is maintained throughout the delivery process across the UK.
Lansoprazole is a type of medicine known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that is primarily used to treat conditions caused by excess stomach acid, such as acid reflux and gastritis. By reducing the amount of acid your stomach makes, it treats heartburn, prevents duodenal ulcers, and manages GORD (Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease). It is a prescription-only medication in the UK, often preferred when over-the-counter remedies like Gaviscon or Rennie fail to provide adequate control.
The active ingredient in this medication is lansoprazole, a potent gastric acid secretion inhibitor. Each gastro-resistant capsule contains either 15mg or 30mg of the active drug, formulated with a special coating to ensure the medicine passes through the stomach safely and is absorbed in the small intestine for maximum efficacy.
Most patients report a significant reduction in heartburn symptoms within the first 2 to 3 days of starting their lansoprazole dose. While individual experiences vary, users often highlight the convenience of a once-daily pill compared to frequent liquid antacids. Some patients note that it is the only medication that effectively manages their nighttime reflux, though a small number of users may experience mild digestive changes during the first week of use.
You should always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication for a comprehensive guide on use and safety. The PIL contains vital data regarding excipients (such as sucrose), storage instructions, and a full list of potential interactions. You can also access the electronic version via the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) website.
Lansoprazole works by targeting the proton pumps in the stomach lining, which are the enzymes responsible for secreting hydrochloric acid. By "turning off" these pumps, the medication lowers the acidity of the gastric juices. This reduction in acid allows inflamed tissue in the oesophagus to heal and prevents the formation of painful stomach ulcers.
To get the best results, you should take lansoprazole at least 30 minutes before food, preferably first thing in the morning. Taking it on an empty stomach ensures the medication is absorbed efficiently. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew it, as this destroys the gastro-resistant coating that protects the active ingredient from stomach acid.
The usual dosage of lansoprazole for adults depends on the condition being treated, typically ranging from 15mg to 30mg once daily. For acid reflux, 15mg is often sufficient for maintenance, while 30mg is used for the initial healing of ulcers or severe oesophagitis. In specific cases like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a doctor may prescribe a higher dose of 60mg or more.
Common side effects of lansoprazole include headache, nausea, and diarrhoea, though these are usually mild and resolve as your body adjusts. According to NHS data, approximately 1 in 100 people may experience these symptoms.
- Common: Constipation, flatulence, dry mouth, or dizziness.
- Rare: Blurred vision, hair loss, or depression.
- Serious: Severe persistent diarrhoea (which may indicate a C. diff infection) or signs of low magnesium (shakiness/arrhythmia).
Before taking lansoprazole, inform your prescriber if you have liver disease, osteoporosis, or low vitamin B12 levels. Long-term use (over a year) may increase the risk of bone fractures or gut infections. While recent headlines have discussed a link between PPIs and dementia, NHS England notes that the evidence remains inconsistent, and for most, the benefits of preventing ulcer complications far outweigh potential risks.
| Feature | Lansoprazole | Omeprazole |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of Action | Often works within 1-2 days. | May take 2-3 days for full effect. |
| Standard Dose | 15mg or 30mg. | 10mg or 20mg. |
| Availability | Prescription only in the UK. | Prescription & Over-the-counter. |
| Interactions | Slightly fewer with certain drugs. | Can interact with Clopidogrel. |
How long does lansoprazole take to work?
Most people begin to feel heartburn relief within 2 to 3 days, but it can take up to 4 weeks for the medication to reach its full acid-suppressing effect.
Can I take lansoprazole after food?
You should ideally not take lansoprazole after food, as food slows down the absorption and makes the pill less effective. If you forget, it is better to take it late than not at all, but try to return to your "30 minutes before breakfast" routine the next day.
Does lansoprazole cause weight gain?
There is currently no clinical evidence that lansoprazole causes weight gain directly. However, as your indigestion improves, you may find you can eat a wider variety of foods more comfortably, which could indirectly affect your weight.
Can you take Gaviscon with lansoprazole?
Yes, you can take Gaviscon with lansoprazole, but you must space them out by at least two hours. Taking them at the same time can prevent the lansoprazole from being absorbed properly.
Is it safe to take lansoprazole in pregnancy?
While lansoprazole is generally considered safe, the NHS typically recommends omeprazole as a first-line treatment for pregnancy-related heartburn because there is more safety data available for it.
Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts and pharmacists to ensure all information is up-to-date, accurate, and reflects the latest NICE guidelines and BNF standards. We prioritise your safety by providing reliable, evidence-based healthcare information.
