Pantoprazole - A new benzimidazole proton pump inhibitor for oval and IV administration

Pantoprazole is an irreversible proton pump inhibitor that effectively redu ces gastric acid secretion. In clinical trials, pantoprazole has been well tolerated and efficacious in the treatment of both duodenal and gastric ulc ers as well as gastroesophageal reflux disease. Preliminary results indicat e that pantoprazole is effective in eradicating Helicobacter pylori when co mbined with antibacterial agents. In comparative trials, pantoprazole was s uperior to H-2-receptor antagonists and as effective as other proton pump i nhibitors in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease or reflux esophagitis, I t is well tolerated and offers a once-daily dosing schedule(40 mg) similar to those of other proton pump inhibitors. The most common adverse effects r eported with pantoprazole included diarrhea, headache, dizziness, pruritus, and skin rash. The availability of an intravenous formulation and minimal drug interactions are potential advantages over other proton pump inhibitor s.