Chemical Information:
- Chemical Name: Pantoprazole Sodium
- Molecular Formula: C16H14F2N3NaO4S
- Molecular Weight: 405.36 g/mol
- CAS Number: 138786-67-1

Pharmacological Action:
1. Proton Pump Inhibition:
Pantoprazole Sodium works by specifically inhibiting the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme (often referred to as the gastric proton pump) in the parietal cells of the stomach. This action blocks the final step in gastric acid production, thereby significantly reducing stomach acid secretion.

1.     Treatment of Acid-Related Conditions:
It is commonly used for conditions where reduction of stomach acid is beneficial, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and erosive esophagitis. By lowering stomach acid levels, pantoprazole helps in healing acid damage to the stomach and esophagus, prevents ulcers, and may prevent cancer of the esophagus.

2.     Symptom Relief:
The reduction in stomach acid helps in relieving symptoms like heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and persistent cough. It can also aid in preventing and treating ulcers in the stomach and intestines.

3.     Duration and Selectivity:
Pantoprazole has a prolonged duration of action and is selective in its activity. It specifically targets the gastric proton pumps without significant off-target effects, which contributes to its safety profile.

4.     Metabolism and Excretion:
It is metabolized primarily in the liver by the cytochrome P450 system, namely CYP2C19 and CYP3A4, into inactive metabolites. Excretion occurs mainly via the kidneys, with the rest excreted via the bile.