Pantoprazole: A New Proton-Pump Inhibitor

Abstract

Pantoprazole, a new substituted benzimidazole, is reviewed for its use in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In the intravenous form, pantoprazole has a rapid onset of antisecretory effect. The oral formulation has good oral bioavailability and chemical stability in mild to moderate acid conditions. Other positive attributes include lack of significant adverse effects and drug interactions, minimal effect of renal and hepatic impairment on drug disposition, and its ability to control gastric pH > 4.0. In comparative studies, it has been shown to be more effective than H2RAs in the treatment of erosive esophagitis, comparable to omeprazole, but less effective than lansoprazole.