When should you take Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)?

When to Take Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole)

Dexilant (dexlansoprazole) can be taken once daily without regard to food or meal times. 1, 2, 3

General Administration Guidelines

• Dexilant features a unique dual delayed release (DDR) formulation that delivers the medication at two different times in the digestive tract, making timing with meals unnecessary 2
• The medication should be taken once daily as prescribed, typically at the same time each day for consistency 1
• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible; however, if it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as scheduled (do not take two doses at once) 1

Specific Administration Instructions

• Dexilant capsules should be swallowed whole and not chewed 1
• For patients who have difficulty swallowing capsules:
  • The capsule can be opened and the granules sprinkled on applesauce 1
  • Alternatively, the capsule can be administered with water via oral syringe or nasogastric tube as described in the Instructions for Use 1

Clinical Indications

• Dexilant is indicated for:
  • Healing of erosive esophagitis (for up to 8 weeks) 1, 4
  • Maintenance of healed erosive esophagitis (for up to 6 months in adults and up to 16 weeks in children 12-17 years) 1, 4
  • Treatment of heartburn related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (for 4 weeks) 1, 3

Advantages of Dexilant's Formulation

• The dual release mechanism provides two peak concentrations at different times (around 2 hours and 5 hours after administration) 2
• This unique delivery system ensures the longest maintenance of drug concentration in plasma among all proton pump inhibitors 2
• Particularly effective for patients with night-time heartburn and GERD-related sleep disorders 2, 3

Special Considerations

• Unlike some medications that must be taken before meals, Dexilant's effectiveness is not dependent on meal timing 1, 3
• Dexilant 60 mg contains FD&C Yellow #5 (tartrazine), which may cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, particularly those with aspirin hypersensitivity 1
• Not recommended for children under 2 years of age 1

Common Side Effects

• Similar safety profile to lansoprazole with common side effects including:
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, diarrhea)
  • Upper respiratory tract infections 2, 4

Remember that consistent daily administration is more important than specific timing with meals when taking Dexilant.