Dexlansoprazole Injection

• Type: Acid-suppressing medication

• Drug Class: Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)

• Form: Sterile solution or lyophilized powder for intravenous (IV) administration

How It Works

• Dexlansoprazole works by irreversibly blocking the proton pumps in the stomach lining.

• These pumps produce gastric acid — by shutting them down, dexlansoprazole reduces stomach acid production.

• This allows the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to heal from acid-related damage and relieves symptoms.

Common Uses

Although dexlansoprazole is mostly available as oral capsules, its IV form (if available) is used when oral administration is not possible:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – especially with erosive esophagitis

• Peptic ulcer disease (stomach and duodenal ulcers)

• Prevention of stress-related gastric ulcers in hospitalized patients

• Hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger–Ellison syndrome

• Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (as part of acid suppression therapy to promote clot stability)

Advantages

• Provides potent and long-lasting acid suppression

• Dual delayed-release technology (in oral form) allows prolonged control — IV form offers continuous effect when oral route is not feasible

• May be given once daily, making it convenient

Possible Side Effects

Most are mild and temporary:

• Headache

• Nausea, diarrhea, constipation

• Abdominal pain or bloating

• Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)

Long-Term or High-Dose Use Risks

• Low magnesium levels

• Vitamin B12 deficiency

• Increased risk of fractures with prolonged use

• Possible increased risk of certain infections (e.g., Clostridium difficile) due to reduced stomach acid

Precautions

• Should be used cautiously in patients with liver impairment (dose adjustment may be needed)

• Long-term use should be monitored to prevent nutrient deficiencies

• Should only be used IV when oral therapy is not possible, then switched to oral when feasible

• Monitor for drug interactions (may affect absorption of drugs needing stomach acid, like ketoconazole)