Pantoprazole
Tablet or capsule
Quick Summary
Pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It lowers the amount of acid the stomach makes, relieving heartburn and helping ulcers heal.
Medical Uses
How it's taken
Usually taken once a day before breakfast; swallow whole.
See a doctor if you need it for more than a few weeks.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Headache
Common and mild.
Stomach upset
Diarrhoea, constipation or wind.
Long-term effects
Possible low magnesium, low B12 and weaker bones.
Interactions
Clopidogrel
Some PPIs reduce its effect.
Methotrexate
Levels may rise.
Some HIV medicines
Shouldn't be combined.
Critical Warnings
Warning signs
Black Box Warning: Difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, black stools or weight loss need urgent checking.
Long-term use
Your doctor should review whether you still need it.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Pantoprazole: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Pantoprazole: medicine to lower stomach acid(opens in a new tab) · NHS