Omeprazole: A Comprehensive Medication Guide
Names of Medication: Prilosec (Omeprazole)
The medication under discussion is known by its generic name, Omeprazole, and marketed in the United States under the brand name Prilosec.
Pharmacologic Category
Omeprazole belongs to the pharmacologic category of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). Other medications in this category include Esomeprazole (Nexium), Pantoprazole (Protonix), Lansoprazole (Prevacid), Dexlansoprazole (Dexilant), and Rabeprazole (Aciphex).
Dosing
Omeprazole treats a variety of gastrointestinal disorders. Here are the common adult dosages:
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
The standard dose for GERD is 20 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks. For maintenance, the dose may be reduced to 20 mg every other day.
Peptic Ulcer Disease
The typical dose is 20-40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
The starting dose is usually 60 mg once daily, but can be increased based on severity.
Erosive Esophagitis
The standard dose is 20 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks.
Nonerosive Reflux Disease
20 mg once daily for 2 weeks is typically recommended.
Gastric Ulcers
40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks is the usual dose.
Duodenal Ulcers
20 mg once daily for 2-4 weeks is commonly prescribed.
Helicobacter Pylori Infection
The dose is 20 mg twice daily for 10-14 days, in combination with appropriate antibiotics.
Stress Ulcers
40 mg once daily for 14 days is typically recommended.
Gastrinomas
The starting dose is 60 mg once daily, which can be increased based on the severity of the condition.
Never adjust your dose without consulting your healthcare provider first.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Omeprazole comes in two forms: delayed-release capsules and oral suspension. The delayed-release capsules are available in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg strengths. The oral suspension comes in a 2.5 mg/ packet and 10 mg/packet strength.
Administration Instructions
Omeprazole should be taken before meals, usually once daily in the morning. The capsules should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects
Headache (common)
Headaches occur frequently with Omeprazole (up to 1 in 10 users). This can be due to changes in the body’s acid balance caused by the reduction of stomach acid.
Nausea and Vomiting (common)
Nausea and vomiting can occur (up to 1 in 10 users). Omeprazole, by reducing stomach acid, may affect the stomach lining and trigger these symptoms.
Abdominal Pain (common)
Abdominal pain is reported by some users (up to 1 in 10). This could be due to the alteration of stomach acid balance caused by Omeprazole.
Constipation or Diarrhea (common)
Constipation or diarrhea can occur (up to 1 in 10 users) due to changes in the digestive process as a result of decreased stomach acid.
Rash or Itching (less common)
Rashes or itching (up to 1 in 100 users) may occur due to an allergic reaction to the medication.
Dizziness and Sleepiness (rare)
Dizziness and sleepiness are rare (up to 1 in 1,000 users) but can occur as the body adjusts to the medication.
Contraindications to taking Omeprazole
A contraindication is a specific situation in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. Omeprazole is contraindicated in:
Known Allergy to Omeprazole or Other Proton Pump Inhibitors
If a person has had an allergic reaction to Omeprazole or similar medications, it’s contraindicated. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Patients Taking Nelfinavir
Omeprazole can interact with the HIV medication nelfinavir (Viracept), reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, it’s contraindicated in patients taking this medication.
Drug to Drug Interactions
Omeprazole may interact with certain medications, including:
Clopidogrel (Plavix)
Methotrexate (Trexall)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Diazepam (Valium)
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Cilostazol (Pletal)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Omeprazole in Pregnancy
Omeprazole is classified as a pregnancy category C drug, which means it’s unknown if it will harm an unborn baby. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or changing medication during pregnancy.
Omeprazole while Breastfeeding
Omeprazole does pass into breast milk but is considered safe for use while breastfeeding. However, consult with your healthcare provider before using this medication while breastfeeding.
Estimated Cost of Medication
The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Omeprazole 20 mg (generic) using a GoodRx coupon is about $10-$20. Remember, these prices are only estimates and may vary depending on the pharmacy and location.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.