A halt to heartburn

Omeprazole belongs to a class of medicines called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Proton pumps are enzymes in the stomach lining that are responsible for producing stomach acid to digest food. It prevents proton pumps from working properly, which reduces the amount of acid the stomach makes.

In the United States, Omeprazole is sold under brands such as First Omeprazole, PriLOSEC and PriLOSEC OTC. These brands all contain Omeprazole, which is the name of the generic medicine and active ingredient.

What’s the difference between generics and brands?

Generic medicines contain the same active ingredients as branded medicines. However, they may contain different added ingredients. Branded medicines are also usually more expensive than generics.

Omeprazole treats medical conditions caused by excess stomach acid, including:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This is when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth and stomach), causing symptoms like heartburn and irritation.

Ulcers: These are sores that develop on the inside lining of the stomach or intestine. Omeprazole can help to heal these ulcers.

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: This is a rare digestive disorder where too much stomach acid is produced.

Sometimes doctors use Omeprazole in combination with antibiotics to treat infections caused by the H. pylori bacteria.

Enzymes called ‘proton pumps’ sit within the stomach lining and help to make stomach acid. Omeprazole is a PPI that blocks the final step of acid production so less stomach acid is made.

The effects of Omeprazole

1

Omeprazole works by reducing the amount of acid produced by your stomach.

2

It can be used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach ulcers and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

3

Omeprazole starts working within an hour after taking a dose. The effects usually last for up to 72 hours.

How long does Omeprazole take to work?

This drug starts working an hour after taking the first dose but may take up to 4 days to see the full effect. This provides quick relief from the uncomfortable symptoms of heartburn and indigestion. The effects usually last for up to 72 hours.

Pantoprazole vs Omeprazole

Like Omeprazole, Pantoprazole is also a PPI and works the same way as Omeprazole. One difference is that Omeprazole can be purchased OTC or via prescription, while pantoprazole is a prescription-only medication.

Famotidine vs Omeprazole

Famotidine is a histamine-2 receptor blocker used to treat acid reflux. Famotidine is useful if you experience symptoms of GERD occasionally, or if your symptoms are mild. Omeprazole may be more suitable for frequent or severe GERD.

To take this medicine correctly, you should:

• Take it once daily, before a meal. Please note, that your doctor may recommend taking it more often, depending on your symptoms.
• Take it with a full glass of water.
• Make sure to swallow the medicine whole, do not crush or chew it. This is because it contains a special gastro-resistant coating, which prevents it from being broken down by the acid in your stomach.
• If you can’t swallow capsules, open the capsules and swallow the contents directly with half a glass of water or put the contents into a glass of still water, stir the mixture, and then drink it straight away. To ensure you have taken all of the medicine, rinse the glass with half a glass of water and drink it.
• Alternatively, you may sprinkle the contents of the capsule on top of apple sauce or yoghurt and swallow this without chewing.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and take the next one at your usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for a missed dose.

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Read and follow the instructions on your prescription label. If you're not sure how to take the medicine, ask your doctor or read the patient information leaflet.

Your symptoms will determine the duration of the course, which can range from a few weeks to a few months. Call your doctor or speak to a healthcare professional if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

Omeprazole is available in a variety of dosage forms and strengths including:

• Delayed-release capsules (Omeprazole 10mg; Omeprazole 20mg; Omeprazole 40mg)
• Delayed-release tablets (20mg)
• Powder for reconstitution
• Oral suspension

Some strengths of this medicine are available to purchase over-the-counter without a prescription. These are typically used for short-term treatment, whereas prescription strengths may be used for a longer duration.

Omeprazole is safe to take for the majority of people however, it may not be suitable for you if you have certain medical conditions or take some medicines.

Do not take this medicine if:

• You are allergic to Omeprazole or any of the other ingredients in this product.
• If you are allergic to other PPIs such as pantoprazole, lansoprazole, esomeprazole, rabeprazole.
• If you are taking a medicine called nelfinavir (used to treat HIV).

Omeprazole may hide the symptoms of other serious medical conditions. Talk to your doctor if:

• You lose a lot of weight for no reason or without trying to
• You have trouble swallowing
• You get stomach pain
• You start to vomit blood
• You pass black poo
• You experience severe or constant diarrhea
• You have severe liver problems
• You have ever had a skin reaction after taking medicines that reduce stomach acid
• You have vitamin B12 deficiency
• You are due to have a specific blood test (Chromogranin A)

Interactions

Some medicines can affect how Omeprazole works and vice versa. You should inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, this includes prescription medicines, over-the-counter treatments or herbal remedies.

Medicines that may interact with Omeprazole include:

• Antifungals
• Blood thinners
• Medicines for cancer
• Medicines used to treat HIV
• St Johns Wort
• Clopidogrel

Omeprazole is a relatively safe medication. As with any other medication, there is a risk of side effects. Some common side effects of Omeprazole include:

• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain
• Wind

You should stop treatment and inform your doctor if you find any of the above become long-lasting or severe. You should also stop treatment and tell your doctor if you suffer any serious side effects not listed.

For a full list of side effects, please consult the patient leaflet included with your order.

Before you buy prescription medication from SpeedyHealth, you have to fill out an online medical consultation. This is a requirement so that our doctors can make sure the medication you select is safe for you.

If our doctors approve, we will deliver your medicine to your chosen address.