Compare Prevacid vs. Maalox
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Treats heartburn and stomach ulcers.
Prevacid (lansoprazole) is an effective and inexpensive acid reducer commonly used to provide heartburn relief and help heal ulcers.
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4.0/ 5 average rating with 21 reviewsforPrevacid
Relieves heartburn and indigestion.
Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) gives quick relief for heartburn, gas, and bloating, but it may not be as effective or last as long as other antacids.
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3.4/ 5 average rating with 213 reviewsforMaalox
Upsides
- Most people can take Prevacid (lansoprazole) without any noticeable day-to-day side effects.
- Comes in a dissolving tablet to be placed on the tongue if you cannot or do not like to swallow pills.
- Prevacid (lansoprazole) lasts longer than other types of antacids (like Zantac, Pepcid, or Tums), and you only need to take it once a day.
- You can take it in combination with a quick-acting antacid (like Maalox or Tums) if you need relief right away.
- Prevacid (lansoprazole) is available over-the-counter and as inexpensive, generic options.
- Works quickly.
- Inexpensive and available over-the-counter.
- Is one of the first choice medications for heartburn relief if you are pregnant.
Downsides
- Doesn't start working right away like some other acid reducers (Tums, Rolaids, or Maalox).
- May not be the best choice for patients 65 years of age and older due to risk of bone fractures and C. diff infection (bacterial).
- Is used if you have frequent heartburns that occur more than 2 days per week. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you only have occasional heartburn.
- Doesn't last very long. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you need longer lasting relief.
- Is not a good option if you have frequent symptoms (more than 2 times a week). Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about stronger medications.
Used for
- Stomach ulcer
- Stomach ulcer prevention while taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Intestinal ulcer
- Stomach bacteria infection (helicobacter pylori)
- Erosive esophagitis
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
- Barrett's esophagus
- Stomach ulcer prevention
- Heartburn prevention
Dosage forms
- Extended release
- Dissolving tablet extended release
- Liquid
- Chewable tablet
- Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$19.00
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Reviews
21 reviews so far
71%
saidit'sworth it
71%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Prevacid (lansoprazole)?
Leave a review213 reviews so far
69%
saidit'sworth it
30%
saiditworked well
9%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
The Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
- Stomach cancer
- Acute kidney damage
- Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD)
- Bone fractures
- High dose Prevacid (lansoprazole)
- Long-term treatment with Prevacid (lansoprazole)
- Low bone mineral density
- Older age
- Lupus
- Low vitamin or mineral levels
- Long term use
- Aluminum and magnesium overdose
- Kidney problems
- Taking more than the recommended daily maximum
- Drug interactions