This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Omeprazole (Inhibitron) Consumer Information
OMEPRAZOLE
Generic Name: omeprazole (oh MEH pra zol)
Brand Names: Prilosec
What is the most important information I should know about omeprazole?
- Over-the-counter omeprazole (Prilosec OTC) should be taken once every 24 hours for 14 days. Treatment may be repeated every 4 months if needed. Do not take more than one tablet per day or repeat treatment more often than every 4 months. If your condition does not improve or if it appears to worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
- Do not stop taking omeprazole even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the condition is fully treated.
What is omeprazole?
- Omeprazole decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
- Omeprazole is used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or heartburn), and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production.
- Omeprazole may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking omeprazole?
- Before taking omeprazole, tell your doctor if you have ever had any type of liver disease. You may not be able to take omeprazole, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring.
- Do not use over-the-counter omeprazole (Prilosec OTC) without first talking to your healthcare provider if you have
- trouble or pain with swallowing;
- vomiting blood;
- bloody or black stools;
- had heartburn for over 3 months;
- heartburn with sweating, lightheadedness, dizziness, chest, shoulder, neck, jaw, or arm pain;
- frequent chest pain;
- heartburn with wheezing;
- unexplained weight loss;
- nausea or vomiting; or
- stomach pain.
- Your doctor should evaluate your condition before taking over-the-counter omeprazole (Prilosec OTC) if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- Omeprazole is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether omeprazole will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take omeprazole without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
- It is not known whether omeprazole passes into breast milk. Do not take omeprazole without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take omeprazole?
- Take omeprazole exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
- Omeprazole is usually taken before a meal. Follow your doctor's instructions.
- Do not crush, chew, or break the over-the-counter omeprazole tablets (Prilosec OTC). Swallow them whole.
- If you have difficulty swallowing, the prescription omeprazole capsules can be opened and the contents sprinkled onto a tablespoonful of applesauce. The pellets should be mixed with the applesauce and then swallowed immediately. The applesauce should not be hot and should be soft enough to be swallowed without chewing. The pellets should not be chewed or crushed. The pellet/applesauce mixture should not be stored for later use. Follow with a drink of water.
- Over-the-counter omeprazole (Prilosec OTC) should be taken once every 24 hours for 14 days. Treatment may be repeated every 4 months if needed. Do not take more than one tablet per day or repeat treatment more often than every 4 months. If your condition does not improve or if it appears to worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
- It is important to take omeprazole regularly to get the most benefit.
- Do not stop taking omeprazole even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the condition is fully treated.
- Store omeprazole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your doctor directs otherwise.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
- Symptoms of an omeprazole overdose include drowsiness, seizures, shortness of breath, and decreased body temperature.
What should I avoid while taking omeprazole?
- There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while taking omeprazole, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.