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Zegerid vs. Pantoprazole

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Zegerid (omeprazole/sodium bicarbonate) and pantoprazole (Protonix) are both medications used to treat conditions related to excess stomach acid, but they have some key differences. Zegerid is a combination of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and an antacid, while pantoprazole is solely a PPI. Zegerid is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, whereas pantoprazole requires a prescription. Zegerid comes in capsule and liquid forms, and its sodium bicarbonate component helps protect omeprazole from stomach acid. Pantoprazole is available as tablets, a liquid, and even as an intravenous (IV) injection. Zegerid must be taken on an empty stomach, while pantoprazole tablets can be taken with or without food. Both medications can cause side effects like headaches and diarrhea, but Zegerid has additional risks due to its sodium content, which can be problematic for those on a low-sodium diet.

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Zegerid

(omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate)

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Pantoprazole

(Protonix)

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Summary for Zegerid

Prescription or over-the-counter

Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) is a combination medication used to treat conditions related to having too much stomach acid. This medication is typically taken by mouth once daily. But don't take it longer than what your provider recommends. Doing so raises your risk for side effects, such as bone fractures or low magnesium levels. Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) is available as a powder that can be made into a liquid suspension for people who have trouble swallowing pills.

Indications for Zegerid

Prescription-strength Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) capsules and suspension:

  • Stomach ulcer
  • Duodenal (first part of small intestine) ulcer
  • Heartburn and other symptoms related gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) due to GERD
  • Lower the risk of stomach bleeding in hospitalized people (suspension only)

OTC Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) capsules:

  • Frequent heartburn

Konvomep (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) suspension:

  • Stomach ulcer
  • Lower the risk of stomach bleeding in hospitalized people

Pros and Cons for Zegerid

Pros

  • Available over the counter
  • Packet form is a good option if you have trouble swallowing pills
  • Typically taken once daily
  • Available as lower-cost generics
  • Longer-lasting relief than some other medications for heartburn

Cons

  • Takes 1 to 4 days to ease heartburn
  • Has sodium, so not a good option for people on sodium-restricted diets
  • Typically has to be taken on an empty stomach before meals for best results
  • Can interact with other medications
  • Long-term use can weaken your bones and cause low vitamin B12 and magnesium

Common Side Effects for Zegerid

  • Headache (3-7%)
  • Stomach pain (2-5%)
  • Diarrhea (3-4%)
  • Nausea (2-4%)
  • Gas (3%)
  • Vomiting (2-3%)

Please note: These side effects were reported in clinical trials by people who took omeprazole only. The side effects you experience from Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) might differ.

Warnings for Zegerid

  • Follow up with provider needed
  • Kidney damage
  • Severe skin reactions
  • High sodium content
  • Acid and base out of balance (Milk-alkali syndrome)
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Bone fractures
  • Lupus
  • Interactions with other medications
  • Low vitamin B12 and magnesium levels
  • Small growths in the stomach

Summary for Pantoprazole

Prescription only

Pantoprazole (Protonix) is a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI). It's used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in adults and children. It's also used to treat other conditions involving too much stomach acid, such as erosive esophagitis, in adults only. Pantoprazole (Protonix) is taken by mouth, typically once daily for most conditions. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include headache and diarrhea. Pantoprazole (Protonix) isn't available over-the-counter (OTC).

Indications for Pantoprazole

Pros and Cons for Pantoprazole

Pros

  • Can continue to use with antacids, such as calcium carbonate
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication
  • Oral tablets can be taken without regard to food
  • Available in oral granules and suspension for people with trouble swallowing

Cons

  • Long-term use might weaken bones and raise the risk of bone fractures
  • Might cause or worsen lupus
  • Interacts with warfarin (Coumadin), which can raise the risk of bleeding
  • Not available over-the-counter

Common Side Effects for Pantoprazole

  • Headache (12%)
  • Diarrhea (9%)
  • Nausea (7%)
  • Belly pain (6%)

Please note: Side effect percentages are listed for adults with GERD.

Warnings for Pantoprazole

  • Risk of hiding symptoms of a more serious problem
  • Sudden kidney problems
  • Severe infectious diarrhea
  • Bone fractures
  • Skin reactions
  • Lupus
  • Low vitamin B12 and magnesium levels
  • Interaction with other medications
  • Inaccurate lab work

Prices with our coupons for Zegerid vs. Pantoprazole

Price Card Drug Icon
Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate30 capsules / 40mg/1100mg
$32.16$1,464.39
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Pantoprazole30 tablets / 40mg
$9.87$16.47
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