Rabeprazole

A fast-acting proton pump inhibitor for acid-related disorders.

What is Rabeprazole?

Rabeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to reduce excess stomach acid and promote healing of acid-related damage.

It has a rapid onset of action compared to some other PPIs.

History & Background

Rabeprazole was developed to provide quicker symptom relief with minimal influence from genetic variations in metabolism.

Chemical Structure & Properties

• IUPAC name: 2-[(4-(3-methoxypropoxy)-3-methylpyridin-2-yl)methylsulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazole
• Molecular formula: C₁₈H₂₁N₃O₃S
• Molar mass: 359.44 g/mol
• Functional groups: Benzimidazole, sulfoxide

Mechanism of Action

Rabeprazole irreversibly inhibits the H⁺/K⁺-ATPase proton pump in gastric parietal cells, leading to:

• Rapid suppression of gastric acid secretion
• Relief from acid-related pain and irritation

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Rapid oral absorption
• Peak plasma time: 2–3 hours
• Metabolism: Liver (non-enzymatic & CYP3A4)
• Half-life: ~1 hour
• Duration of action: 24 hours

Medical Uses

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Functional dyspepsia
• H. pylori eradication (combination therapy)

Dosage Guidelines

Adults: 20 mg once daily (before meals)

Severe cases: 20 mg twice daily

⚠️ Swallow whole. Do not crush or chew.

Side Effects

• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Abdominal discomfort

Warnings & Precautions

• Long-term use may cause mineral deficiency
• Risk of vitamin B12 deficiency
• Use lowest effective dose

Drug Interactions

• Ketoconazole (reduced absorption)
• Iron salts
• Atazanavir

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rabeprazole faster than omeprazole? – Yes, onset is quicker.

Does it work instantly? – Relief may begin within 1 day.

Best time to take? – Morning before food.

Safe long-term? – Yes, under supervision.

⚠️ Educational content only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.