Omeprazole belongs to the class of inhibitors of the proton pump . Its action is based on the reduction and regulation of the production of acidic juices in the stomach .
What is Omeprazole used for?
Omeprazole is prescribed to treat gastroesophageal reflux , alone or in combination with other medicines. It helps the esophagus to heal and prevent further damage, and also helps reduce the symptoms of the disorder.
Disorders characterized by excessive acid production by the gastric system, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, can be alleviated by prescribing Omeprazole. This also applies to the treatment of ulcers , including those associated with Helicobacter pylori infections , of which Omeprazole can also help prevent the reappearance.
Omeprazole can also be prescribed to neutralize frequent heartburn that appears at least 2 times a week. Since Omeprazole can take 1 to 4 days to take effect, it is not a remedy that can give immediate relief from heartburn symptoms.
How is Omeprazole taken?
Omeprazole can be taken in the form of tablets, capsules or granules for orally delayed release suspension .
In general, the treatment of frequent heartburn involves taking 1 dose a day, in the morning, at least one hour before meals, for 14 consecutive days. A new course of treatment can be performed once every 4 months if necessary.
Taking 1 – 3 doses a day at least before meals can be prescribed if gastroesophageal reflux occurs , or an ulcer .
Side effects of Omeprazole
The risk of wrist, hip and spine fractures increases significantly when taking proton pump inhibitors. This is especially true in the case of prolonged treatments, which last for over a year, or in the case of high dosages. Prolonged treatments can also cause a weakening of the gastric wall.
Other potential collateral effects of Omeprazole could include:
- constipation
- gas
- headache
- nausea
- He retched
A doctor should be contacted immediately when one of the following side effects occur while taking Omeprazole:
- irregular, heavy or fast heart beat
- dizziness
- convulsions
- diarrhea and loose stools
- difficulty breathing or difficulty swallowing
- temperature
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles or calves
- stomach ache
- urticaria
- itch
- rash
- hoarseness
- feeling light-headed
- muscle spasms
- excessive tiredness
- uncontrollable tremors
Contraindications and warnings on the use of Omeprazole
Your doctor should always be advised before starting Omeprazole in the following cases:
- of any allergies to Omeprazole, dexlansoprazole, Esomeprazole, Lansoprazole, Pantoprazole, Rabeprazole, their excipients or any other drug;
- of the medicines, phytotherapy and supplements taken, in particular: antibiotics, anticoagulants, Atazanavir, Benzodiazepines, Cilostazol, Clopidrogel, Cyclosporine, Digoxin, Disulfiram, diuretics, iron supplements, Ketoconazole, Methotrexate, Nelfinavir, Fenitoir, Tazolimol and other antifungals;
- in the past you have suffered or still suffer from low blood levels of magnesium or liver disease ;
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding .
