Key takeaways
Pantoprazole (Protonix) and Lansoprazole (Prevacid) are both proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) used to treat conditions like GERD and excessive stomach acid. Pantoprazole (Protonix) is available only by prescription, while Lansoprazole (Prevacid) can be bought over-the-counter (OTC) or by prescription. Pantoprazole (Protonix) can be taken orally or through an intravenous injection, whereas Lansoprazole (Prevacid) is only taken orally. Lansoprazole (Prevacid) is available in both capsule and orally disintegrating tablet forms, which can be helpful if you have trouble swallowing pills. Both medications can cause side effects like diarrhea, stomach pain, and headache. Additionally, both medications can interact with other drugs, including with Edurant (rilpivirine), which is used to treat HIV.
