Omeprazole belongs to the class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors. Its action is based on reducing the production of stomach acid juices.
What is Omeprazole?
Omeprazole is prescribed alone or in combination with other medications to treat gastroesophageal reflux. In addition to reducing the symptoms of the disorder, it also helps the esophagus to heal and prevent further damage. Omeprazole may also be prescribed to treat disorders characterized by excessive production of acid from the stomach, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and in case of ulcers, including those associated with Helicobacter pylori infections, which can also help prevent their recurrence. Finally, omeprazole can be taken to cope with frequent heartburn that appears at least 2 times a week. It is not a remedy that provides immediate relief from symptoms of heartburn: for effect it may need 1-4 days.
How should Omeprazole be taken?
Omeprazole can be taken orally in tablet form, delayed-release capsules or suspension granules. In general, the treatment of frequent heartburn involves taking 1 dose a day, in the morning, at least one hour before eating, for 14 consecutive days. If necessary, the treatment can be repeated once every 4 months. In case of acid reflux and ulcers you can foresee taking from 1 to 3 servings daily, at least one hour before meals.
Side effects associated with Omeprazole
Taking proton pump inhibitors increase the risk of fractures of the wrist, hip and spine, especially at high doses or prolonged treatment that exceed a year in duration. Furthermore, prolonged treatment may weaken the stomach wall. Other possible adverse effects of omeprazole include the following:
- constipation
- gas
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
It is good to immediately contact a physician in case you are taking omeprazole and it is associated with any of the following:
- heavy, fast or irregular heartbeat
- dizziness
- seizures
- diarrhea, watery stools
- shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing
- fever
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles or calves
- stomach pain
- hives
- itching
- rash
- hoarseness
- feeling light-headed
- muscle spasms
- excessive tiredness
- uncontrollable tremors
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Omeprazole
Before taking omeprazole it is important tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to dexlansoprazole, omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, their ingredients or any other medication
- You are taking other medicines, herbal remedies and supplements, especially antibiotics, anticoagulants, atazanavir, benzodiazepines, digoxin, cilostazol, duration individual, Cyclosporine, disulfiram, diuretics, iron supplements, ketoconazole, phenytoin, methotrexate, tacrolimus, nelfinavir, saquinavir, voriconazole and other antifungals
- You suffer (or have suffered) from low blood levels of magnesium or liver disease.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
