What it is used for

Heartburn and acid reflux (GORD)
Healing and preventing stomach and duodenal ulcers
Getting rid of H. pylori infection, with antibiotics
Protecting the stomach in people taking anti-inflammatory painkillers

Read our guides:

Acid reflux (GORD)

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Pantoprazole is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Pantoprazole blocks proton pumps in the stomach lining, so the stomach makes less acid.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Pantoprazole can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

headache
diarrhoea or constipation
wind
stomach pain
feeling sick

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

severe or watery diarrhoea that does not stop
muscle cramps or an irregular heartbeat after long use
a rash on sun-exposed skin with joint pain

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

See a GP if you have difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss or are being sick.
Long-term use can lower vitamin B12 and magnesium.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.