Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate: An In-Depth Medication Profile

Names of Medication

Brand Name in the US: Zegerid (Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate)

Pharmacologic Category

Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate falls under the category of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). Other medications in this category include:
Pantoprazole (Protonix)
Esomeprazole (Nexium)
Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
Rabeprazole (Aciphex)
Dexlansoprazole (Dexilant)

Dosing

Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate is used to treat a variety of conditions. Here are the diseases and the respective dosages:
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): The usual dose is 20 mg once daily for 4 weeks.
Peptic ulcer disease: Typically, the dose is 20-40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: Initial dose is 60 mg once daily, but the dose can be increased as necessary.
Erosive esophagitis: 20-40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks.
Nonerosive reflux disease: 20 mg once daily for 2 weeks.
Please consult with your healthcare provider before adjusting the dose of the medication.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate comes in capsule form in strengths of 20 mg/1100 mg and 40 mg/1100 mg.

Administration Instructions

Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate capsules should be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before a meal. The capsules should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or opened.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Common side effects of Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate include:
Headache (common): This can occur due to the alteration in pH balance caused by the drug.
Abdominal pain (common): This can occur as the body adjusts to the medication.
Nausea (less common): This is likely due to the medication’s effect on the stomach’s acid production.
Diarrhea (less common): This can occur due to the increased bicarbonate in the digestive tract.

Contraindications to Taking Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate

Contraindications are situations where a medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. Here are some contraindications for Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate:
Allergy to Omeprazole or Sodium Bicarbonate: If you’ve had an allergic reaction to either component of this drug, it’s contraindicated.
Severe liver disease: As Omeprazole is metabolized in the liver, the drug can accumulate in patients with severe liver disease, potentially leading to toxicity.
Hypocalcemia: Sodium bicarbonate can lead to metabolic alkalosis, which can lower calcium levels, worsening hypocalcemia.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate can interact with several other medications. Here are some significant drug interactions:
Digoxin (Lanoxin): Omeprazole can increase the absorption of digoxin, potentially leading to toxicity.
Warfarin (Coumadin): Omeprazole can enhance the effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Methotrexate (Trexall): Omeprazole may increase methotrexate levels, potentially leading to toxicity.

Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate in Pregnancy

Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate is classified as Pregnancy Category C. This means that while no adequate studies have been done in pregnant women, animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus. Therefore, it should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate while Breastfeeding

Both omeprazole and sodium bicarbonate are excreted into human milk. While no known harm to nursing infants has been reported, the potential for harm exists. Therefore, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, considering the importance of the drug to the mother.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate (40mg/1100mg) with a GoodRx coupon, without insurance, is approximately $140. Remember, prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location and are subject to change based on negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies.

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.

Conclusion

Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate is an effective treatment for a variety of gastroesophageal conditions. While it’s generally well-tolerated, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects and interactions. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting the dose of any medication.

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.