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Pantoprazole Indications & Clinical Uses

Evidence-based guide for pediatric prescribing

Pantoprazole is indicated for short-term treatment of symptomatic GERD and healing of erosive esophagitis in children ≥5 years, and is used off-label for stress ulcer prophylaxis in high-risk ICU patients.

Primary FDA-Approved Indications

Its lower drug–drug interaction potential makes pantoprazole a preferred proton pump inhibitor when patients receive multiple medications. Therapy should be meal-timed and reassessed regularly to avoid unnecessary long-term use.

Symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease

FDA Approved
Children and adolescentsGuideline

Once-daily dosing for 4–8 weeks; consider step-down once symptoms remit.

Evidence Sources

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Erosive esophagitis

FDA Approved
Children and adolescentsLabel

Treat up to 8 weeks; extend only with specialist oversight.

Evidence Sources

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Secondary Clinical Uses

Helicobacter pylori eradication (triple therapy)

Secondary Use
AdolescentsGuideline

Combine with amoxicillin and clarithromycin or metronidazole per susceptibility results.

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Off-Label Uses

Note: Off-label uses may be clinically appropriate based on evidence and expert consensus, but are not FDA-approved for these indications. Always consider the evidence base and document clinical reasoning.

Stress ulcer prophylaxis in critically ill children

Off-Label
ICU patients

Use when risk factors (mechanical ventilation >48 h, coagulopathy) are present; discontinue when risk resolves.

Evidence Sources

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