Pariet (rabeprazole sodium) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) designed for the effective management of acid-related gastrointestinal disorders. It works by selectively and irreversibly inhibiting the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system at the secretory surface of gastric parietal cells, leading to a profound and prolonged suppression of gastric acid secretion. This mechanism provides rapid symptomatic relief and promotes healing of erosive and ulcerative conditions in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Clinically trusted and widely prescribed, Pariet offers a reliable therapeutic option for both short-term treatment and maintenance therapy in appropriate patient populations.

Features

• Active ingredient: Rabeprazole sodium
• Available in enteric-coated tablet formulations (common strengths: 10 mg and 20 mg)
• Rapid onset of action with acid suppression observed within one hour of administration
• Bioavailability is approximately 52% and is not significantly affected by food intake
• Metabolized primarily via non-enzymatic pathways and cytochrome P450 (CYP) system
• Excreted mainly in urine (90%) as metabolites

Benefits

• Provides rapid and sustained relief from heartburn, acid regurgitation, and other GERD symptoms
• Promotes healing of erosive esophagitis and reduces risk of recurrence
• Effective in healing gastric and duodenal ulcers, including those associated with NSAID use
• Used in combination therapy for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection
• Helps manage pathological hypersecretory conditions, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
• Generally well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile in most patient groups

Common use

Pariet is indicated for the treatment of conditions where reduction of gastric acid secretion is beneficial. These include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), including symptomatic GERD and erosive esophagitis; healing and maintenance of gastric ulcers; duodenal ulcers; and in combination with antibiotics for the eradication of H. pylori in patients with peptic ulcer disease. It is also used in the management of pathological hypersecretory conditions.

Dosage and direction

The dosage of Pariet should be individualized based on the condition being treated and patient response. For most adults with GERD, the recommended dose is 20 mg once daily for 4 to 8 weeks. For maintenance of healing of erosive esophagitis, 10 mg or 20 mg once daily may be used. For H. pylori eradication, Pariet 20 mg twice daily is given alongside prescribed antibiotics for 7 days. Tablets should be swallowed whole, with or without food, and must not be crushed or chewed.

Precautions

Patients should be advised to inform their healthcare provider of any liver disease, as dosage adjustment may be necessary. Long-term use (especially beyond one year) may be associated with an increased risk of fractures, hypomagnesemia, and vitamin B12 deficiency. Use with caution in patients with osteoporosis or those at risk for mineral deficiencies. Pariet may mask symptoms of gastric malignancy; appropriate diagnostic evaluation should be conducted if alarm features are present. Not recommended for immediate relief of heartburn symptoms.

Contraindications

Pariet is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to rabeprazole, substituted benzimidazoles, or any component of the formulation. Concomitant use with rilpivirine-containing products is contraindicated due to the potential for decreased rilpivirine plasma concentrations and loss of virologic response.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, and constipation. Less frequently, dizziness, rash, dry mouth, and elevated liver enzymes may occur. Rare but serious adverse effects include anaphylaxis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, acute interstitial nephritis, Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, and subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Long-term use may be associated with increased risk of bone fracture, hypomagnesemia, and vitamin B12 deficiency.

Drug interaction

Pariet may alter the absorption of drugs that are pH-dependent, such as ketoconazole, iron salts, and digoxin. It may increase the serum concentration of methotrexate. Concomitant use with warfarin may require monitoring of INR due to potential increases in prothrombin time. Rabeprazole may interact with CYP2C19 substrates; dose adjustment of drugs such as phenytoin may be necessary. Avoid concomitant use with atazanavir or nelfinavir due to reduced antiretroviral efficacy.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling the dose to make up for a missed one is not recommended.

Overdose

Experience with rabeprazole overdose is limited. Reported doses have varied, and symptoms may be consistent with the known effects of acid suppression. There is no specific antidote; treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis is not effective in removing rabeprazole due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C or 59–86°F) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and before starting or changing any medication regimen. Do not disregard or delay seeking medical advice based on information provided here.

Reviews

Clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance indicate that Pariet is generally effective and well-tolerated. Many patients report significant improvement in GERD symptoms within a few days of starting therapy. Healthcare professionals appreciate its predictable pharmacokinetics and efficacy in acid suppression. Some reviews note the importance of adhering to prescribed duration to avoid potential long-term risks. Overall, it remains a trusted option within the PPI class for appropriate indications.