What type of drug is Lantoprazole classified as?

Lansoprazole is classified as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). This group of medications works by blocking the proton pump in the stomach lining, which is responsible for the production of gastric acid. By inhibiting this enzyme, lansoprazole effectively reduces the amount of acid produced, leading to a decrease in acidity in the stomach. This mechanism of action is particularly useful in the treatment of conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach ulcers, and other disorders related to excessive stomach acid production.

In contrast, antihistamines are primarily used to treat allergic reactions and conditions such as hay fever, while antidiabetic drugs are used to manage blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. Muscle relaxants are employed to alleviate muscle spasms and discomfort. Each of these alternative classifications serves a distinct purpose in medical treatment, differing significantly in their mechanisms and therapeutic uses compared to that of proton pump inhibitors like lansoprazole.