Medication Side Effects: Gastritis and Sore Throat Relief

Gastritis / Sore throat - Questions about medication?

Dear Dr.
Chung,
I would like to seek your advice regarding my father, who is currently 74 years old and has been a chronic disease patient for many years.
He regularly visits a cardiologist every month to receive medication for hypertension, gout, prostate issues, and cardiovascular diseases.
Recently, he experienced stomach discomfort, and after undergoing an endoscopy, he was diagnosed with gastritis and pharyngitis.
His cardiologist prescribed Topaal Tab 200 mg and Zantac Tab 150 mg, along with his other daily medications for hypertension, gout, prostate issues, and cardiovascular health.
His stomach has been gradually improving; however, he has been suffering from persistent headaches, dizziness, and gum pain, which he did not experience before taking these two medications.

To investigate, he stopped taking Topaal and Zantac for two days, and the headaches, dizziness, and gum pain disappeared.
Nevertheless, he wishes to treat his gastritis and pharyngitis effectively, so he resumed taking the medications, but the headaches, dizziness, and gum pain returned.

We hope you can take the time to answer the following questions:
1.
Why do Topaal and Zantac cause headaches, dizziness, and gum pain?
2.
If his stomach condition improves (the medication is for a 30-day supply), can he discontinue the medications?
Thank you very much,
Zhang Hua

Zhang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/09/17

Dr. Zhong Yuxun reply Internal Medicine

Dear Ms.
Chang,
The symptoms you mentioned are likely side effects of Topaal or Zantac.
Although these medications are commonly used and generally well-tolerated, individual responses can vary due to differences in body constitution.
You may want to ask your father's attending physician to consider switching to another medication.
As for the duration of the gastric medication, it depends on the severity of inflammation indicated in the endoscopy report, so please consult your attending physician regarding this matter.
Wishing you and your family peace and happiness.
Dr.
Chung Yu-Hsuan
Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan

Reply Date: 2002/09/17

More Info

Dear Zhang Hua,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your father's health concerns related to the medications he is currently taking for his gastric issues. It’s understandable that you are worried about the side effects he is experiencing, especially given his chronic health conditions. Let’s address your questions systematically.

1. Why are Topaal (a proton pump inhibitor) and Zantac (an H2 receptor antagonist) causing headaches, drowsiness, and gum pain?
Both Topaal (which contains pantoprazole) and Zantac (ranitidine) are commonly prescribed medications for managing gastric conditions such as gastritis and ulcers. While they are generally well-tolerated, they can have side effects.
Headaches and drowsiness can occur as side effects of these medications. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Topaal can sometimes lead to central nervous system effects, including headaches and dizziness, although this is not very common. Zantac, while less likely to cause these symptoms, can also lead to headaches in some individuals.
As for the gum pain, it is less commonly reported but could be related to several factors. It might be a direct side effect of the medications, or it could be due to other factors such as oral hygiene changes, interactions with other medications, or even stress related to his health issues.
2. If the gastric condition improves, can he stop taking the medications?
It is crucial to consult with the prescribing physician before making any changes to his medication regimen. If your father’s gastric symptoms have improved significantly, the doctor may consider tapering off the medications or switching to a lower dose. However, stopping these medications abruptly without medical guidance is not advisable, as it could lead to a rebound effect, worsening his gastric symptoms.

In managing gastritis and throat inflammation, it is essential to balance the need for effective treatment with the potential for side effects. If the side effects persist and significantly impact his quality of life, it would be prudent to discuss alternative medications or treatment strategies with his healthcare provider.
Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, stress management, and regular follow-ups with his healthcare team can also play a significant role in managing his conditions.
In conclusion, while medications like Topaal and Zantac are effective for treating gastric issues, they can have side effects that vary from person to person. Close communication with his healthcare provider is essential to ensure that he receives the best possible care tailored to his specific needs.
Thank you for your concern for your father's health, and I hope this information helps clarify his situation. Please encourage him to maintain open communication with his healthcare team regarding any side effects he experiences.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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