Omeprazole
What It Is Used For
Omeprazole reduces the amount of acid the stomach makes. It is used for heartburn and acid reflux (GERD), stomach and duodenal ulcers, ulcers caused by painkillers, and, together with antibiotics, to clear the stomach infection H. pylori.
How to Take It
Usually 20 mg once a day, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. Some conditions need 40 mg a day or twice-daily dosing for a short time. Treatment usually lasts 4 to 8 weeks. Swallow capsules whole; do not crush or chew them.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to omeprazole or similar medicines (esomeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole), or if you take the HIV medicine rilpivirine.
Side Effects
Common: headache, stomach pain, diarrhoea, nausea, wind and constipation. Long-term use can lower magnesium and vitamin B12 levels and slightly raise the risk of bone fractures and some gut infections.
Precautions
See a doctor before taking it if you have unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, repeated vomiting, vomiting blood, or black stools. Do not use it for months without a doctor's review.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
It is used in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed, but only on a doctor's advice.
Interactions
It can reduce the effect of clopidogrel. Tell your doctor if you take clopidogrel, warfarin, methotrexate, some HIV medicines, ketoconazole or itraconazole, or digoxin.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, in the original pack, out of the reach of children.
Checked by the Oshud Alo pharmacy team. For information only; follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Omeprazole