Acipra Capsule (Enteric Coated) 20 mg

Acipra Capsule (Enteric Coated) is a proton pump inhibitor containing Rabeprazole Sodium 20 mg. Manufactured by Alco Pharma Ltd, this gastric acid reducer treats peptic ulcers, GERD, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The enteric-coated capsule formulation ensures optimal drug delivery to intestinal absorption sites.

Priced at ৳7.00 per capsule (৳70.00/strip), Acipra offers cost-effective treatment. Clinical studies show 4-8 weeks of therapy resolves most acid-related disorders. Its mechanism inhibits H+/K+-ATPase pumps in gastric parietal cells, reducing acid secretion by 90% within 2.3 hours post-dose.

Key indications include:

• Active duodenal/gastric ulcers
• Erosive GERD management
• Helicobacter pylori eradication (with antibiotics)
• Long-term acid control in hypersensitive patients

Dosage varies from 10-160mg daily based on condition severity. Pediatric GERD requires weight-based adjustments (5-10mg). Store below 30°C, protected from moisture. Common side effects like headache (1.3%) and diarrhea (1.7%) are generally mild and transient.

Adults: 20 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks in duodenal ulcers. Gastric ulcers: up to 6 weeks. GERD: 20 mg for 4-8 weeks. Pediatric GERD (＜15 kg): 5 mg daily. Zollinger-Ellison: 60-120 mg/day in divided doses. Take capsule whole before breakfast.

In general, Acipra is well-tolerated in both short-term and long-term studies. Acipra may sometimes cause headache, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, increased or decreased appetite, muscle pain, drowsiness, dizziness.

US FDA pregnancy category C. Excreted in breast milk – consider discontinuing nursing. Limited human data on pregnancy safety.

Monitor magnesium/calcium in long-term use. Bone density assessment recommended. Rule out malignancy for persistent dyspepsia. Vitamin B12 deficiency possible. Discontinue if C. difficile diarrhea occurs.

Pediatric GERD: Use weight-based dosing. No dose adjustment in renal/hepatic impairment. Elderly patients require fracture risk assessment.

The maximum established exposure has not exceeded 60 mg twice daily, or 160 mg once daily. Effects are  generally minimal, representative of the known adverse event profile and reversible without further medical intervention. No specific antidote is known. Acipra is extensively protein bound and is, therefore, not dialysable. As in any case of overdose, treatment should be symptomatic and general supportive measures should be utilised.