Understanding Dexilant and its Generic, Dexlansoprazole
Dexilant is a well-known brand-name prescription medication used to manage conditions related to excessive stomach acid. The answer to 'What is the generic version of Dexilant?' is dexlansoprazole. Approved by the FDA, generic dexlansoprazole became available in the United States in January 2022, providing a chemically identical but often more affordable alternative for patients. Both Dexilant and dexlansoprazole are classified as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These drugs are prescribed for adults and children aged 12 and older.
How Dexlansoprazole Works
Dexlansoprazole works by directly targeting the proton pumps in the stomach's parietal cells. These pumps are responsible for the final step in acid production. By inhibiting the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system, dexlansoprazole effectively blocks the secretion of gastric acid, leading to a significant reduction in stomach acidity. This action helps alleviate symptoms like heartburn and allows for the healing of esophageal tissue damaged by acid reflux.
A unique feature of dexlansoprazole is its dual delayed-release (DDR) technology. This means the capsule contains two types of enteric-coated granules that dissolve at different pH levels. The first release of the drug occurs in the duodenum (the upper part of the small intestine), and the second occurs further down in the small intestine. This creates two distinct peaks in plasma concentration, one about 1-2 hours after taking it and a second peak 4-5 hours later. This innovative delivery system provides a more sustained level of medication in the blood, prolonging the acid-suppressing effect over a 24-hour period.
Conditions Treated by Dexlansoprazole
Healthcare providers prescribe dexlansoprazole for several acid-related conditions:
- Healing of Erosive Esophagitis (EE): For all grades of EE, dexlansoprazole helps heal the damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid.
- Maintenance of Healed Erosive Esophagitis: After initial healing, it can be used to prevent the recurrence of EE and relieve heartburn.
- Symptomatic Non-Erosive Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): It is used for the treatment of heartburn associated with GERD where there is no visible esophageal damage.
Dosage and Administration
Dexlansoprazole is available in various strengths as delayed-release capsules. The appropriate dosage depends on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. Healthcare providers determine the specific dosage and duration of treatment for each patient. Capsules should be swallowed whole. For patients who have difficulty swallowing, the capsule can be opened and the granules sprinkled on one tablespoon of applesauce and swallowed immediately without chewing. This medication can be taken without regard to food.
Brand vs. Generic: A Comparison
By law, a generic medication must contain the same active ingredient, have the same strength, and work in the same way as its brand-name counterpart.
| Feature | Dexilant (Brand) | Dexlansoprazole (Generic) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Dexlansoprazole | Dexlansoprazole |
| Effectiveness | Same clinical effect as generic | Same clinical effect as brand |
| FDA Approval | Approved as bioequivalent | Approved as bioequivalent |
| Cost | Significantly higher; can exceed $300-$400 for a 30-day supply without insurance | Lower cost; can be around $200-$355 or less with coupons |
| Availability | Prescription only | Prescription only |
Potential Side Effects and Warnings
Like all medications, dexlansoprazole can cause side effects. The most common ones include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, gas, and symptoms of the common cold.
More serious, though less common, side effects can occur, particularly with long-term use (typically over a year). These risks include:
- Bone Fractures: An increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine.
- Vitamin B-12 Deficiency: Long-term use (3+ years) can lead to difficulty absorbing Vitamin B-12.
- Low Magnesium Levels (Hypomagnesemia): Can occur after 3 months of treatment but is more likely after a year.
- Clostridioides difficile (C. diff)-associated diarrhea: A severe form of diarrhea that can be a sign of a new infection.
- Sudden Kidney Problems (Acute Interstitial Nephritis): A rare condition where the spaces between kidney tubules become swollen.
- Cutaneous and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Can cause new or worsening symptoms of this autoimmune disease.
Patients should speak with their healthcare provider about these risks. It's important to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
Conclusion
The generic version of Dexilant is dexlansoprazole, a highly effective proton pump inhibitor with a unique dual delayed-release formulation for sustained acid control. Since its market release in 2022, it has provided a bioequivalent, lower-cost alternative to the brand-name drug for patients needing treatment for GERD and erosive esophagitis. While it is generally well-tolerated, patients should be aware of the potential side effects, especially those associated with long-term use, and maintain open communication with their healthcare provider. Dexlansoprazole remains a prescription-only medication and is not available over the counter.
For more information, you can visit the MedlinePlus page on Dexlansoprazole.
