NHS guidance has warned those taking Lansoprazole that they may encounter issues if they do so for three months or more.

Lansoprazole is a type of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

It is primarily used to treat and prevent a range of acid-related conditions such as indigestion and heartburn.

There are four other medicines similar to lansoprazole which are: omeprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole.

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Generally, they’re just as effective and have similar side effects to lansoprazole, reports LancsLive.

However, they may be prescribed in different quantities than lansoprazole. If lansoprazole isn’t effective for you or if you experience side effects, your doctor might suggest trying another PPI.

Patients taking lansoprazole should start to feel better within two to three days but it may take up to four weeks for the medication to fully work, so some acid symptoms might persist during this time.

The duration of lansoprazole treatment depends on the condition being treated, but it’s generally recommended to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time to avoid long-term side effects.

And while many people use lansoprazole for extended periods, even years, it should only be taken with regular medical supervision due to potential risks.

The NHS advises that if you take lansoprazole for more than three months, your blood magnesium levels may drop.

Patients are warned that low magnesium can lead to fatigue, confusion, dizziness, muscle twitches, shakiness, and an irregular heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical advice.

Magnesium is vital for over 300 bodily functions. It aids nerve function, muscle activity (including the heart), bone health, energy levels, blood sugar regulation, and blood pressure control.

Insufficient magnesium can result in muscle cramps, tiredness, irregular heart rhythms, and long-term issues such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis. This can impact cell function and electrolyte balance.

Taking lansoprazole for more than a year may heighten your risk of certain side effects, including bone fractures, gut infections and vitamin B12 deficiency. Symptoms of this deficiency can include extreme fatigue, a sore and red tongue, mouth ulcers and pins and needles.

The NHS states: “If you take lansoprazole for longer than one year, your doctor will regularly check your health to see if you should carry on taking it.

“It’s not known if lansoprazole works less well the longer you take it. If you feel that lansoprazole is not working any more, talk to your doctor.”

Ensure you inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are currently taking. Lansoprazole can interact with certain drugs like warfarin, digoxin, and some HIV medicines. Avoid taking antacids (such as Gaviscon) within two hours of taking lansoprazole. Do not use St John’s wort (a herbal remedy) with lansoprazole.

Contact your doctor immediately or call emergency services if you experience severe symptoms, such as an allergic reaction (swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing), worsening stomach pain, severe or persistent diarrhoea, or signs of low magnesium (for example, muscle spasms, irregular heartbeat, confusion).

Always consult a medical professional if you have concerns about your health.