• Pantoprazole, known by the brand name Protonix, treats stomach ulcers and GERD by reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces—so what you eat while taking the medication matters.

  • Foods like coffee, chocolate, peppermint, and spicy, fatty, or acidic foods make this medication less effective. 

  • You can maximize the effectiveness of pantoprazole by taking the medication 30 to 60 minutes before a meal, eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down immediately after eating, and avoiding foods that can aggravate symptoms.