From Kapidex to Dexilant: Why the Name Change?
In 2010, Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America, with the FDA's approval, renamed Kapidex (dexlansoprazole) to Dexilant in the United States to reduce medication errors. The name 'Kapidex' was causing confusion with two other drugs, Casodex (used for prostate cancer) and Kadian (an opioid painkiller), due to similar appearance and sound. Such mix-ups posed a significant risk to patient safety.
The Role of Regulatory Action in Patient Safety
The FDA's approval of the name change demonstrates the importance of regulatory oversight in preventing medication errors. By acting on reports of dispensing errors, the FDA and pharmaceutical companies can implement changes to protect patients. The change to Dexilant helped ensure that patients with acid-related disorders received the correct proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment.
What is Dexlansoprazole?
Dexlansoprazole is the active ingredient in both Kapidex and Dexilant. It's a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid by blocking the enzyme responsible for acid production in the stomach. Dexlansoprazole has a unique Dual Delayed Release™ (DDR) formulation, which releases the medication in two phases, providing sustained acid control over 24 hours. This is particularly beneficial for conditions like GERD, including nighttime heartburn.
Medical Uses for Dexilant (Dexlansoprazole)
Dexilant is prescribed for several conditions caused by excess stomach acid, including:
- Healing of erosive esophagitis (EE): Treating damage to the esophagus caused by acid reflux.
- Maintenance of healed EE: Preventing the return of EE and its symptoms.
- Treatment of symptomatic non-erosive GERD: Managing heartburn symptoms in patients without visible esophageal damage.
Key Facts about Dexilant and Its Predecessor
- Active ingredient is dexlansoprazole, the R-enantiomer of lansoprazole.
- Features Dual Delayed Release™ (DDR) technology for extended acid control.
- Name changed from Kapidex to Dexilant for safety reasons to avoid confusion with other drugs.
- Formulation is the same as Kapidex.
- A once-daily prescription PPI for acid reflux management.
The Name Change in Context: Kapidex vs. Other Sound-Alike Drugs
The table below illustrates the potential for confusion between Kapidex (now Dexilant) and the drugs with which it was being mixed up:
| Feature | Dexilant (formerly Kapidex) | Casodex | Kadian |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | dexlansoprazole | bicalutamide | morphine sulfate |
| Drug Class | Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) | Nonsteroidal antiandrogenic antineoplastic agent | Opiate agonist analgesic |
| Primary Use | Treat GERD, erosive esophagitis, and heartburn | Treat advanced prostate cancer | Manage moderate-to-severe pain |
| Formulation | Dual Delayed Release Capsule | Tablet | Extended-release capsule |
| Safety Concern | Potential for mix-up with Casodex and Kadian | Fetal harm if used during pregnancy | Fatal respiratory depression possible if misused |
Conclusion: A Lesson in Medication Safety
The change from Kapidex to Dexilant highlights the critical importance of clear drug names for patient safety. Although the medication (dexlansoprazole) and its unique dual delayed-release formula remained the same, the name change significantly reduced the risk of dangerous dispensing errors. Patients should be aware that Dexilant is the new name for Kapidex to ensure they continue their treatment correctly. Always verify prescriptions with your pharmacist and doctor, and consult the official Takeda Pharmaceuticals news release for more details on the name change.
Related Medications
Other common proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) include:
- Omeprazole: (e.g., Prilosec).
- Lansoprazole: (e.g., Prevacid).
- Esomeprazole: (e.g., Nexium).
- Pantoprazole: (e.g., Protonix).
Dexilant's DDR formulation offers pharmacokinetic benefits over some other single-release PPIs.
How to Take Dexilant
Dexilant is typically taken once daily. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow capsules whole, or open and sprinkle contents on applesauce for immediate swallowing if needed. Take it around the same time daily for consistency. Full effects may take 1 to 4 days.
Safety Information
Like other PPIs, Dexilant can have side effects, particularly with long-term use. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and headaches. Prolonged use can potentially lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, low magnesium, and increased risk of bone fractures. Rare but serious issues like C. difficile infection and allergic reactions are also possible. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider and do not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Conclusion
To answer what is the old name for Dexilant, it was Kapidex. The name change in 2010 was a vital safety measure to prevent dispensing errors caused by confusion with similarly named drugs. Dexilant, containing dexlansoprazole, remains an effective treatment for GERD and erosive esophagitis, valued for its dual delayed-release technology. Understanding this history helps patients and professionals ensure correct medication use and promote patient well-being.
