Rabeprazole
Rabeprazole, sold as Pariet, is a proton-pump inhibitor that reduces stomach acid to treat Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease and Peptic Ulcer Disease. Pariet comes as 20 mg tablets.
Key points
- Rabeprazole is also used alongside antibiotics to eliminate H. pylori bacteria and, in adults, for Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
- Long-term or high-dose use of proton-pump inhibitors may increase the risk of fractures in the wrists, hips or spine.
- Pariet tablets must be swallowed whole: splitting, chewing or crushing them destroys the coating that protects the drug from stomach acid.
How does Rabeprazole work?
Rabeprazole blocks the proton pumps in the stomach lining, the tiny structures that produce hydrochloric acid. With less acid reaching the stomach, the oesophagus and ulcer sites can heal without further irritation. Pariet is formulated as a delayed-release tablet so the drug passes through the stomach intact and is released in the intestine, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream before reaching the pumps.
Further reading
What is rabeprazole used for?
Rabeprazole is used to treat gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease and duodenal ulcers. It is also used alongside antibiotics to eliminate H. pylori bacteria and, in adults, for Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
How long does rabeprazole take to work?
Rabeprazole starts to work within 1 to 2 hours and its effect lasts for about 24 hours.
What side effects can rabeprazole cause?
Common side effects include headache, diarrhoea and nausea. Other side effects can include flatulence, abdominal pain and dry mouth. Serious side effects such as acute interstitial nephritis and severe hypomagnesaemia need immediate medical attention, so speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you notice anything worrying.
Can rabeprazole be taken with other medicines?
Rabeprazole can interact with some other medicines, including rilpivirine, ketoconazole and mycophenolate mofetil. It must not be taken with rilpivirine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking it with any other medicine.
Who should not take rabeprazole?
Rabeprazole should not be used by anyone who is allergic to it or who is taking rilpivirine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
Which rabeprazole products does Direct Meds sell?
On Direct Meds, rabeprazole comes as Pariet. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How much does rabeprazole cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Is rabeprazole available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order rabeprazole. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver rabeprazole to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →