Pansos 20 

Presentation: Each capsule contains Pantoprazole Sodium Sesquihydrate equivalent to Pantoprazole 20 mg. Pansos 20 is a product of NIPRO JMI Pharma Ltd. in Bangladesh and is usually available in blister packs. The capsule contains enteric-coated granules to protect the active ingredient from stomach acid.

Indications: Pansos (Pantoprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) indicated for conditions where the inhibition of gastric acid secretion is therapeutically beneficial, including:

• Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), including symptomatic relief and healing of erosive esophagitis.
• Long-term management of conditions that involve excessive stomach acid production, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
• Prevention of gastroduodenal ulcers induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in patients at risk who require continuous NSAID therapy.
• Eradication of Helicobacter pylori in combination with appropriate antibiotics.
• Peptic ulcer disease (gastric and duodenal ulcers).

Dosage and Administration: Pansos 20 capsules should be swallowed whole with liquid, preferably one hour before a meal. Do not chew or crush the capsules. The usual dosage is:

• GERD: 20-40 mg once daily for 4 weeks, with a possible extension for another 4 weeks if healing is not complete. Maintenance dose is 20 mg daily, which may be increased to 40 mg if needed.
• NSAID-associated gastric or duodenal ulcer prophylaxis: 20 mg once daily for patients requiring long-term NSAID treatment.
• H. pylori eradication: Pantoprazole 40 mg twice daily is usually recommended as part of a combination therapy with antibiotics for one week.
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Initial dose is usually 80 mg once daily, adjusted based on clinical response and acid output. Doses above 80 mg daily should be administered in two divided doses.
• Peptic ulcer disease: For duodenal ulcer, 40 mg daily in the morning for 2 weeks, with a possible extension for another 2 weeks. For benign gastric ulcer, 40 mg daily in the morning for 4 weeks, with a possible extension for another 4 weeks.

The dosage and duration of treatment should be determined by a physician based on the individual patient's condition.

Side Effects: Pantoprazole is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects may include headache and diarrhoea. Less common side effects reported are abdominal pain, flatulence, rash, insomnia, and hyperglycaemia. Long-term use may potentially lead to malabsorption of Vitamin B12 or an increased risk of osteoporosis-related fractures. If you experience any persistent or troublesome side effects, consult your doctor.

Precautions: Pansos (Pantoprazole) is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to pantoprazole or any of the excipients in the formulation. Before starting treatment, gastric malignancy should be excluded. Caution should be exercised in patients with severe liver impairment.

Pantoprazole may interact with certain drugs, affecting their absorption or metabolism. These include drugs dependent on gastric pH for absorption (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) and certain antiretroviral medications. Inform your doctor about all other medications you are currently taking.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation: Pantoprazole should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus. It has been shown that pantoprazole is excreted in human milk. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importanceof the drug to the mother.  

Storage:   Store in a dry place, away from heat and light. Keep out of reach of children. Do not split, chew, or crush the capsule.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.