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Omeprazole

Pronunciation: oh-MEP-ra-zol
Generic name: omeprazole
The brand names are: FIRST Omeprazole, Omeprazole + SyrSpend SF Alka, PriLOSEC, PriLOSEC OTC, and Zegerid (Original Formulation).
Dosage formats: oral delayed-release capsule (10 mg; 20 mg; 40 mg) Oral delayed-release tablets (20 mg) oral powder for reconstitution, delayed release (10 mg; 2.5 mg), oral suspension (2 mg/mL)
Drug class: Proton pump inhibitors

What is Omprazole?

Omeprazole is a medication used to treat stomach acid excess in conditions like non-cancerous stomach ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), active duodenal ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and erosive esophagitis. Omeprazole is a medication that blocks gastric acid production. It is part of a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors.

Omeprazole is also available along with antibiotics to treat gastric ulcers caused by an infection caused by Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori).

OTC (OTC) Omeprazole can be found in adults to control heartburn that is experienced at least two days a week. The OTC brand is consumed regularly for 14 consecutive days.

Warnings

Omeprazole may cause kidney issues. Inform your doctor if you're not urinating as much as normal or if there is blood in your urine.

Diarrhea could be an indication of a new infection. Contact your doctor in the event of diarrhea that is swollen or has blood within it.

Omeprazole is not recommended to treat immediate heartburn symptoms.

Omeprazole could result in the development of new or worsening symptoms of Lupus. Inform your doctor if you suffer from joint pain or a temporary rash of skin on your arms or cheeks that gets worse in the sun.

It is possible to be more likely to suffer broken bones if you take this medication for a long time or more than once a day.

Before you Take this Drug

Heartburn may be one of the early signs of a cardiac attack. Seek medical attention immediately when you experience chest pain that extends to your shoulder or jaw and you're feeling hot or lightheaded.

Omeprazole should not be used if you are allergic to it or

  • There is also an allergy to medicines such as omeprazole, including esomeprazole, pantoprazole, and lansoprazole (Nexium, Prevacid, Protonix, and others).
  • You experienced breathing issues. You had kidney issues, breathing problems, or an extreme allergic reaction following taking omeprazole previously,
  • Additionally, you take HIV medications that contain the drug rilpivirine (such as Complera, Edurant, Odefsey, and Juluca).

Ask your doctor or pharmacist to determine if this medication is suitable for use if you are suffering from:

  • Difficulty or discomfort swallowing;
  • Black or bloody stools and vomit that resembles coffee grounds or blood;
  • Heartburn that lasted for more than 3 months;
  • Frequently chest pain, frequent wheezing, and chest pain;
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Nausea or vomiting; stomach pain;
  • Liver disease;
  • Lower levels of magnesium in your blood.
  • Osteoporosis or low bone mineral density (osteopenia).

It is possible that you are more likely to suffer fractured bones in your wrist, hip, or back when you are taking a long-term proton pump inhibitor or more than once every day. Talk with your doctor about ways to ensure your bones are healthy.

Consult a physician before taking this medication if you are nursing or pregnant. Don't give the medication to a child unless you have medical guidance.

How to Take Omeprazole?

Use omeprazole as directed on the label or as directed by your physician. Follow the directions on the label of your prescription and also read the medication guide or instructions sheets. Make use of Prilosec OTC (over-the-counter) precisely as stated on the label or as directed by your physician. Take note of and follow the Instructions for Use that are included in your medication. Consult your physician or pharmacist If you don't understand the instructions. Make sure to shake off your oral suspension (liquid) prior to using it to determine a dose. Utilize the dosing syringe that comes with it or a dosage measuring device (not the kitchen spoon). If you're unable to take the entire capsule, then open it and mix the medication into one spoonful of applesauce. Consume the mix immediately without chewing. Don't store the mixture to use later.

Omeprazole must be dissolved in powder form in a small amount of water. The mixture may be taken in a swallow or via the Nasogastric (NG) tube for feeding with a catheter-tipped syringe. Make sure to take this medicine for the entire prescribed amount of time, even if symptoms improve quickly. OTC omeprazole can be taken for a maximum of 14 consecutive days. It can take between 1 and 4 days before symptoms begin to improve. Give at least 4 months before starting another 14-day course of treatment.

Consult your doctor if symptoms do not improve or if they become worse. Certain conditions can be treated using the combination of omeprazole and antibiotics. Take all medicines according to the directions. This medication can alter the results of some tests. Inform any physician who treats patients that you're using this medication. Place it in a cool, dry place free of heat and moisture.

What Happens If I Miss a Dose?

Do not take the medicine for as long as you can. However, do not take your missed dose if you are nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't take two doses at a time.

What Happens If I Overdose?

For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.

What Should be Avoided?

Omeprazole may cause diarrhea, which can be a sign of a new infection. If you are experiencing diarrhea that is bloody or watery and you are unable to get a doctor's appointment, consult your doctor prior to taking anti-diarrhea medication.

Side Effects of Omeprazole

Get immediate medical attention. If you exhibit symptoms that indicate an allergy reaction to the medication omeprazole, such as hives, breathing problems, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue,

Stop taking this medication and consult your physician immediately if you suffer from:

  • Extreme stomach discomfort; diarrhea that is bloody or watery;
  • A new or unusual ache in your thigh, wrist, or hip;
  • Seizure (convulsions);
  • Kidney issues such as rash, fever, nausea, loss of appetite, a lower frequency of urination, urine with blood, and weight gain.
  • Low magnesium causes dizziness and irregular heartbeats. Experiencing jittery feelings, muscle spasms, coughing, or a feeling of choking,
  • New or worsening signs of Lupus joint pain and a rash of skin on your arms or cheeks that gets worse in the sun.

Long-term use of omeprazole can cause stomach tumors, also known as fundic gland polyps. Consult your physician about the possibility.

If you take this medication for more than 3 years, you could be developing a vitamin B-12 deficiency. Discuss with your physician how to deal with this issue if you become affected.

Common side effects of omeprazole include:

  • Symptoms of a cold like congestion, sneezing, and a sore throat (especially for children);
  • Febrile illness (especially among children);
  • Stomach pain, gas;
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and other side effects could occur. Contact your doctor for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Interaction with Other Drugs

It is sometimes not advisable to take certain medications simultaneously. Certain drugs may affect your blood levels and the other drugs you are taking, which could create side effects or render the medication less effective.

Inform your doctor about the medicines you are currently taking. A variety of drugs can affect the omeprazole drug, including:

  • Digoxin;
  • Clopidogrel;
  • Methotrexate;
  • John's wort;
  • Diuretic, also known as "water pill"; or
  • Is an antibiotic: amoxicillin, clarithromycin, rifampin.

This list isn't complete and includes a variety of Other medications that can be a potential cause of interaction with Omeprazole. This includes over-the-counter and prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal products. There are many possible interactions between drugs, which are listed here.