What is the difference between Dexlansoprazole (a proton pump inhibitor (PPI)) and Lansoprazole (a proton pump inhibitor (PPI))?

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Last updated: April 6, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the FDA Drug Label

Dexlansoprazole is the R-enantiomer of lansoprazole (a racemic mixture of the R- and S-enantiomers). The main difference between Dexlansoprazole and Lansoprazole is that dexlansoprazole is the R-enantiomer of lansoprazole, which is a racemic mixture of the R- and S-enantiomers.

  • Key points: + Dexlansoprazole has a dual delayed-release formulation. + Lansoprazole is a racemic mixture of R- and S-enantiomers. No direct comparison of efficacy or safety between dexlansoprazole and lansoprazole is provided in the given text. 1

From the Research

Dexlansoprazole is generally more effective for longer periods due to its dual delayed-release formulation, making it a better choice for patients with nighttime heartburn or GERD symptoms, despite being more expensive than lansoprazole 2.

Key Differences Between Dexlansoprazole and Lansoprazole

  • Dexlansoprazole has a dual delayed-release formulation, providing two separate releases of medication, whereas lansoprazole typically requires more careful timing with meals.
  • Dexlansoprazole is the R-enantiomer of lansoprazole, making it more potent at the same dose.
  • Typical dosing for dexlansoprazole is 30-60mg once daily, while lansoprazole is usually 15-30mg once daily.

Efficacy and Safety

  • Dexlansoprazole has been shown to be effective in the treatment of symptoms and lesions associated with erosive oesophagitis caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) 2.
  • Both medications have similar side effect profiles, including headache, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, and both carry the same long-term risks associated with PPI use 3.

Long-term Risks

  • Long-term use of PPIs, including dexlansoprazole and lansoprazole, has been associated with an increased risk of osteoporotic fracture, including hip, spine, and wrist fractures 4.
  • The US FDA has issued a warning regarding fractures and impaired magnesium absorption associated with the use of PPIs 3.

Recommendation

  • Based on the most recent and highest quality study, dexlansoprazole is recommended for patients with nighttime heartburn or GERD symptoms due to its dual delayed-release formulation and improved efficacy 2.
  • However, the choice between dexlansoprazole and lansoprazole should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the patient's individual needs and medical history, as well as the potential long-term risks associated with PPI use.

References

Research

Dexlansoprazole - a new-generation proton pump inhibitor.

Przeglad gastroenterologiczny, 2015

Research

Perils and pitfalls of long-term effects of proton pump inhibitors.

Expert review of clinical pharmacology, 2013

Research

Proton Pump Inhibitors and Bone Health: An Update Narrative Review.

International journal of molecular sciences, 2022

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.