Who Makes This Medication?
Kapidex is made by Takeda Pharmaceutical America, Inc.
Kapidex belongs to a group of medications called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
The stomach contains tiny pumps (called proton pumps) that produce acid. Kapidex works by binding to the proton pumps, stopping them from producing acid. PPIs are very effective at decreasing acid production, since they work directly at the acid pumps.
Kapidex capsules contain tiny delayed-release granules that contain the medication. They are specially designed to release the medication in two different phases. The first "peak" occurs one to two hours after the medication is taken, and the second peak occurs within four to five hours. Additionally, the delayed-release granules are also enteric coated, which means they have a special coating to protect them from stomach acid (since the medication can be destroyed by stomach acid). The coating protects the medication until it reaches the small intestine, where the medication can be absorbed.
General considerations include the following:
- This medication comes in capsule form. It is taken by mouth once a day.
- You can take Kapidex with food or on an empty stomach.
- Swallow the capsules whole; do not chew or crush the capsules.
- If absolutely necessary, the capsules may be opened and the contents sprinkled on a spoonful of applesauce. The applesauce should not be warm and should be eaten immediately without chewing.
- Be sure to take this medication at the same time each day, to keep an even level of the medication in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
The dose of Kapidex that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to Kapidex
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, Kapidex can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. Most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of Kapidex include, but are not limited to:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Nausea
- Upper respiratory tract infection (such as the common cold)
- Vomiting
- Gas.
(Click Kapidex Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Kapidex?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
At this time, it is not clear exactly what to expect with an overdose. If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Kapidex Be Stored?
Kapidex capsules should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Kapidex as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of Kapidex.
Kapidex capsules come in the following strengths:
- Kapidex 30 mg
- Kapidex 60 mg.
