Omeprazole

What is Omeprazole?

Omeprazole (Prilosec) is an inexpensive drug used to treat certain conditions where there is too much acid in the stomach like ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is more popular than comparable drugs. It is available in both generic and brand versions, and without a prescription. Omeprazole is used to treat certain conditions where there is too much acid in the stomach. It is used to treat gastric and duodenal ulcers, erosive esophagitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a condition where the acid in the stomach washes back up into the esophagus. Sometimes it is used in combination with antibiotics (eg, amoxicillin, clarithromycin) to treat ulcers associated with infection caused by the H. pylori bacteria (germ).

It is a standard drug that is used to provide cure when there is an excessive amount of acid in the stomach. It is taken to treat certain conditions such as gastric and duodenal ulcers, erosive esophagitis as well as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a type of condition when there is an acid reflux in the stomach and it goes back up into the esophagus.

How does Omeprazole work?

Omeprazole works by effectively reducing the level of acidity and the amount of acid produced inside the stomach. It works by blocking certain systems in the cell walls of the stomach refer to as proton pump. The process impacts the final stages of acid production. Whenever the proton pump is effectively blocked, the stomach creates lesser acid. This helps acid reflux, hyperacidity, and certain ulcers.

Stomach pain can be debilitating and it precludes one from performing daily tasks. This is where Omeprazole comes in handy. It helps reduce acidity levels inside the stomach reducing symptoms for patients.

How do I take Omeprazole?

Omeprazole is a medication that can be taken once a day, preferably in the morning. For acute acid reflux, hyperacidity, or stomach ulcers, take Omeprazole twice a day – once in the morning and in the evening.

Take Omeprazole as recommended by your physician, at least 1 hour before any full meal.

Do not gnaw or chew on the capsule. You must take the capsule as a whole with a full glass of water.

Omeprazole dosage

Omeprazole is a prescription-only medication. The lowest dose is a 10mg, with 20mg and 40mg also available.

For stomach infection or duodenal ulcer of patients aged 18 years and older, 20mg Omeprazole should be taken once a day for 4 weeks.

For gastric ulcer of patients aged 18 years and older, take 40 milligrams once a day for 4-8 weeks of treatment.

For GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease of patients aged 18 years and older, 20mg of Omeprazole should be taken once a day for 4 weeks.

What are the side-effects of Omeprazole?

Like any other medicine, Omeprazole oral capsules come with certain side effects, but not all people will get them. If you are wary about the adverse of the drug, always check the product information leaflet for a list of side effects.

Common side effects of Omeprazole include:

• Stomach pain
• Diarrhoea
• Headaches

Should these side effects occur, they are often mild and will surely go away in a few days or weeks. If they are severe and do not go away easily, contact your GP or physician with urgency.

Serious side effects of Omeprazole:

• Jitteriness
• Muscle weakness
• Exhaustion or tiredness
• Seizures
• Abnormal heart rate
• Fast heart rate or palpitations
• Cramps
• Joint or muscle aches
• Spasm of your voice box
• Tremors
• Spasms of your hands and feet
• Low magnesium levels

This medication can interact with other drugs, supplements, vitamins, or herbs patients might be taking. The interaction occurs when another medicine impacts the way a certain medication works in the body. This can hinder the way the drug works and can be very dangerous. Avoid these interactions by asking your doctor and let them know about all the medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking to ensure that Omeprazole will work effectively for you.

Omeprazole does not cause drowsiness. One can still drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks that require mental alertness and focus while on medication. However, there are some side effects that can be experienced. The side effects can differ from one person to another considering their age, medical condition, treatment taken, and more. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication.

More Information

• What are the side effects of long term use of omeprazole?
• When to take omeprazole?