Q. I suffer from GERD, and the many meds I have tried do not offer adequate relief. I\u2019ve seen ads for Voquezna. Can you share information on its efficacy, please?<\/p>\n
A. Vonoprazan (Voquezna) is the first in a new class of acid-suppressing drugs to be marketed in the U.S. The Food and Drug Administration approved it for sale in 2024.<\/p>\n
Usually, gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) is treated with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) such as omeprazole, esomeprazole or lansoprazole. These powerful acid-suppressing medications are known by the brand names Prilosec, Nexium and Prevacid.<\/p>\n
Voquezna is a \u201cpotassium-competitive acid blocker\u201d (PCAB). Some studies indicate that it is at least as effective as a PPI, and it may even be a bit better. A recent review suggests that for someone like you, who has not gotten relief with a PPI, this new acid-blocking drug might be a viable alternative (Cureus, May 17, 2025). <\/p>\n
Side effects mentioned in the TV commercial for Voquezna include allergic reactions that may cause \u201ctrouble breathing, rash, itching and swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat.\u201d Other serious reactions include \u201ckidney problems, intestinal infections, fractures, life-threatening skin reactions, low B12 or magnesium levels and stomach growths.\u201d Other potential side effects include stomachache, high blood pressure, urinary tract infection, and either diarrhea or constipation.<\/p>\n
One other possible obstacle is the price. If insurance does not cover this prescription medication, the coupon price could be as much as $700 for a month\u2019s supply.<\/p>\n
You can find more information about this and many other ways to tame heartburn in our \u201ceGuide to Overcoming Digestive Disorders.\u201d This online resource can be found under the Health eGuides tab at www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. <\/p>\n
* * *<\/p>\n
In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of King Features, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or email them via their website: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Their newest book is \u201cTop Screwups Doctors Make and How to Avoid Them.\u201d<\/p>\n
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