From the Research
In the United States, the most suitable options for liquid or chewable proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are lansoprazole (Prevacid) oral suspension and omeprazole (Prilosec) compounded liquid suspension for liquid formulations, and lansoprazole (Prevacid SoluTab) and omeprazole (Prilosec OTC Wildberry) for chewable options. These alternative formulations are particularly useful for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills, including children, elderly patients, or those with swallowing disorders. The liquid formulations maintain the same efficacy as standard capsules or tablets but offer easier administration 1. It's essential to note that compounded liquid formulations typically have shorter shelf lives than standard PPI capsules, and proper storage instructions should be followed. Dosing remains similar to standard formulations, but specific instructions should be obtained from a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Some key points to consider when choosing a liquid or chewable PPI include:
- Efficacy: All PPIs have similar efficacy in many cases, but differences between them should be considered when choosing a treatment regimen 2.
- Safety: Long-term use of PPIs may have significant adverse effects, and physicians should assist patients in tapering off their use of PPIs and replacing them with lifestyle modifications and/or other agents that have better long-term safety profiles 3.
- Patient population: These alternative formulations are particularly useful for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills, including children, elderly patients, or those with swallowing disorders.
In terms of specific options, lansoprazole (Prevacid) oral suspension and omeprazole (Prilosec) compounded liquid suspension are available for liquid formulations, and lansoprazole (Prevacid SoluTab) and omeprazole (Prilosec OTC Wildberry) are available for chewable options. These options can be used to treat various conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcer disease, and can be used in combination with other medications, such as antibiotics, to eradicate Helicobacter pylori infection 4.