Question 1

What is Dexilant?

Accepted Answer

Dexilant is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. It works by decreasing the production of acid in the stomach.

By lowering acid levels, this medication helps manage conditions involving excess gastric acid. It contains the active ingredient dexlansoprazole.

Question 2

What is Dexilant used for?

Accepted Answer

Dexilant is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease and erosive esophagitis .

Question 3

How does Dexilant work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Dexilant works by shutting down many of the tiny pumps in the stomach lining that produce acid. These are called proton pumps. By blocking these pumps, the medication significantly lowers the level of acid in the stomach. This reduction in acid helps relieve symptoms like heartburn and allows the esophagus to heal if it has been damaged by acid reflux.

Dual Delayed Release Technology

This medication is unique because it uses a dual delayed-release delivery system. Each capsule contains two different types of granules designed to release the medicine at different times:

The first release occurs shortly after taking the dose, providing an initial reduction in stomach acid.

The second release happens several hours later, which helps maintain acid control for a longer period throughout the day and night.

By spreading out the release of the active ingredient, the medication provides extended relief from acid-related symptoms with a single daily dose.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Dexilant?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Dexilant is dexlansoprazole .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Dexilant?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Dexilant may include:

diarrhea

abdominal pain

nausea

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Dexilant?

Accepted Answer

Dexilant belongs to the proton pump inhibitor drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Dexilant and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

General Instructions

Dexilant is typically taken once daily. It can be taken with or without food. The medication should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional, even if symptoms improve before the treatment course is finished.

Capsules should be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules or the granules contained within them.

Alternative Administration

For individuals who have difficulty swallowing capsules, the medication may be administered by opening the capsule and sprinkling the granules onto a small amount of applesauce. The mixture should be swallowed immediately without chewing the granules. Do not prepare the mixture in advance for later use.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Question 8

Is Dexilant safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Dexilant use in pregnant women. Research in animals using high doses of dexlansoprazole did not show evidence of harm to the developing fetus or an increased risk of birth defects. However, because animal studies do not always predict human response, this medication should be used during pregnancy only if a healthcare provider determines the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus.

Breastfeeding

It is not known whether Dexilant passes into human breast milk, how it might affect a nursing infant, or its impact on milk production. Because many medications are excreted in human milk, there is a potential for adverse reactions in nursing infants. A decision should be made whether to stop breastfeeding or stop taking the medication, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother's health. Individuals who are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their doctor before using this medication.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Dexilant come in?

Accepted Answer

Dexilant is available as a delayed-release capsule. This formulation uses a dual delayed-release technology, which is designed to release the medication in two separate phases.

The capsules are intended to be swallowed whole. However, for patients who have difficulty swallowing, the capsules may be opened and the contents can be administered by:

Sprinkling the granules onto applesauce.

Mixing the granules with water for administration through a gastric tube.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Dexilant?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older. It is a prescription medication indicated for the following uses:

Healing of Erosive Esophagitis: Used for up to 8 weeks to heal all grades of erosive esophagitis (acid-related damage to the esophagus).

Maintenance of Healed Erosive Esophagitis: Used to maintain the healing of erosive esophagitis and provide relief from heartburn.

Symptomatic GERD: Used for up to 4 weeks to treat heartburn associated with non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Safety Communications and Warnings

The FDA has issued several safety communications regarding the class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which includes Dexilant:

Bone Fractures: The FDA has warned of a possible increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine associated with PPI use. This risk is most significant in patients who receive high doses or use the medication for one year or longer.

Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea: FDA safety reviews have linked the use of PPIs to an increased risk of Clostridium difficile -associated diarrhea (CDAD), a severe form of diarrhea that does not improve.

Lupus Erythematosus: The FDA has monitored reports of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) associated with the use of PPIs.

Dexilant does not currently have a boxed warning or a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program required by the FDA.

Question 11

What should I know about Dexilant and cost?

Accepted Answer

Factors Influencing Cost

The price of Dexilant can vary based on several variables, including the pharmacy location and the specific dosage prescribed. Because it is a brand-name medication, it is often more expensive than older proton pump inhibitors.

Insurance and Generic Options

Insurance coverage is a primary factor in determining out-of-pocket costs. Many insurance providers place Dexilant on a higher cost tier or may require prior authorization, which means your doctor must provide additional information to the insurance company before the drug is covered. A generic version, dexlansoprazole, is available and is typically a more affordable option for most patients.

Financial Assistance Programs

There are several options that may help reduce the cost of this medication for eligible individuals:

Savings Cards: The manufacturer may offer copay savings cards for patients with commercial insurance to help lower monthly out-of-pocket expenses.

Patient Assistance: Programs may be available to provide the medication at a lower cost or for free to individuals who meet specific income requirements and lack adequate insurance coverage.

Medicare and Medicaid: Coverage for Dexilant under government programs varies by state and specific plan. Generic versions are generally more likely to be covered at a lower cost tier than the brand-name product.

Dexilant

Medication Quick Facts

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What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

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FDA / Regulatory Status

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