Drug Guide

Generic Name

Dexlansoprazole

Brand Names Dexilant, Dexilant Solutab

Classification

Therapeutic: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)

Pharmacological: Proton pump inhibitor

FDA Approved Indications

  • Erosive esophagitis associated with GERD
  • Symptomatic GERD
  • Maintenance of healing of erosive esophagitis

Mechanism of Action

Dexlansoprazole inhibits the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system of the gastric parietal cells, leading to a decrease in gastric acid secretion.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically 30 mg once daily before a meal; dose may be adjusted based on response and condition.

Pediatric: Not approved for pediatric use.

Geriatric: No specific initial dosage adjustment, but monitor for increased risk of side effects.

Renal Impairment: No dose adjustment required.

Hepatic Impairment: Use caution, no specific dosage adjustment recommended.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed, with a prompt and sustained release formulation.

Distribution: Extensively bound to plasma proteins.

Metabolism: Metabolized by hepatic CYP450 enzymes, primarily CYP2C19 and CYP3A4.

Excretion: Primarily via urine and feces.

Half Life: Approximately 1-2 hours; pharmacodynamic effect lasts longer.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to dexlansoprazole or other PPIs.

Precautions

  • Long-term use may increase risk of osteoporosis-related fractures, hypomagnesemia, and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Caution in patients with liver disease.

Adverse Reactions - Common

  • Diarrhea (Common)
  • Nausea (Common)
  • Abdominal pain (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

  • Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (Serious but rare)
  • Hypomagnesemia (Serious but rare)
  • Severe allergic reactions (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

  • Clopidogrel (may reduce antiplatelet effect)
  • Ketoconazole and itraconazole (may decrease absorption of PPIs)
  • Methotrexate (may increase plasma levels)

Drug-Food Interactions

  • No significant food interactions

Drug-Herb Interactions

  • Potential interactions with St. John's Wort affecting metabolism.

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor for relief of GERD symptoms, check magnesium levels in long-term therapy.

Diagnoses:

  • Impaired gastrointestinal function related to acid suppression.

Implementation: Administer before meals, monitor for adverse effects.

Evaluation: Assess symptom improvement and adverse effects regularly.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Take medication exactly as prescribed, usually before meals.
  • Report persistent diarrhea or signs of magnesium deficiency.
  • Avoid crushing the capsule if not instructed, or take as directed.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

  • Long-term use may increase risk of osteoporosis-related fractures.
  • Risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.

Genetic Factors: CYP2C19 polymorphisms can affect drug metabolism.

Lab Test Interference: Potential to interfere with urine steroidal metabolite testing.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Nausea, vertigo, increased sweating, fatigue.

Treatment: Supportive care, activated charcoal if recent ingestion, and symptomatic management.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Stability: Stable for the duration of storage.

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended for clinical use.