If this medication works for you, improvement should be noticed within 4-6 weeks. Longer term use may be suggested by your doctor depending on your condition, and how long it takes to heal or prevent a recurrence. Stopping treatment abruptly could lead to a relapse. Only stop treatment on the advice of your doctor, once they're sure that the underlying condition has improved.
It's prescribed for prevention and treatment of peptic, duodenal, and gastric ulcers, ulcers caused by stress, excessive stomach acid production, acid reflux, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, in combination with antibacterials to relieve ulcer caused by Helicobacter pylori, and heartburn.
The drug may also be used in some cases to treat recurrent warts, acne, hives, shingles, and hyperthyroid conditions. It may further be effective in treating gastrointestinal ulcers caused by certain arthritis treatments.