Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: OMEPRAZOLE DELAYED RELEASE TABLET - ORAL (oh-MEH-pruh-zole)
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Omeprazole works by blocking acid production in the stomach. This medication is known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It is used to treat acid-related stomach and throat (esophagus) problems (e.g., acid reflux or GERD, ulcers, erosive esophagitis, or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). In addition, it may be used in combination with antibiotics to treat certain types of intestinal ulcers caused by bacterial infection. In the US, this medication is nonprescription and is used to treat frequent heartburn (occurring 2 or more days a week). It is important if you are taking this medication for self-treatment to read the manufacturer's package instructions carefully so you know when to consult your doctor or pharmacist.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily, 15-30 minutes before a meal, or as directed by your doctor. Do not crush, break or chew the medication. Swallow the medication whole. Take with a full glass of water (8 oz. or 240 ml). Antacids may be taken along with this medication, if needed. The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Continue to take this medication for the prescribed length of treatment even if you are feeling better. The US nonprescription product is not intended to provide immediate relief of heartburn. It may take up to 1-4 days before the full benefit of this drug is seen. The self-treatment course for heartburn is usually 14 days. If your heartburn persists after this period of time or worsens, or if you require more than one treatment course every 4 months, then contact your doctor or pharmacist. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation, cough, dizziness or back pain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: signs of vitamin B-12 deficiency with long-term (over 3 years) treatment (e.g., unusual weakness, sore tongue, numbness or tingling of the hands/feet). A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, Heartburn) - Learn about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, acid reflux, heartburn) symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and nausea. Causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention information is also included.
- pantoprazole, Protonix - Explains the medication pantoprazole (Protonix), a drug used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), like other PPI's it also is used for treating ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, and the Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.
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