Omeprazole
Information about Omeprazole
Omeprazole uses
Omeprazole is used in the treatment of heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (acid reflux) and peptic ulcer disease.
How omeprazole works
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach which helps in relief of acid related indigestion and heartburn.
Common side effects of omeprazole
Diarrhea, Flatulence, Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Increased liver enzymes, Abdominal pain, Itching, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Dizziness, Sleepiness, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Vertigo, Dermatitis, Rash, Red spots or bumps, General discomfort, Peripheral edema, Increased sweating, Interstitial nephritis, Joint pain, Muscle pain, Hepatitis (viral infection of liver), Dryness in mouth, Stomatitis (Inflammation of the mouth), Gastrointestinal candidiasis, Blurred vision, Taste change
Available Medicine for Omeprazole
Expert advice for Omeprazole
- It is a well-tolerated medicine and provides relief for a long time.
- Some healthy tips to prevent acidity from happening:
- Avoid excessive intake of carbonated beverages/soft drinks, citrus juices, fried food, caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
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Avoid eating late at night or before bedtime.
- Inform your doctor if you get watery diarrhea, fever or stomach pain that does not go away.
- Inform your doctor if you do not feel better after taking it for 14 days as you may be suffering from some other problem that needs attention.
- Long-term use of Omeprazole can cause weak bones and a deficiency of minerals such as magnesium. Take adequate dietary intake of calcium and magnesium or their supplements as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking medication without talking to your doctor.
- Consult your doctor right away if you develop decreased urination, edema (swelling due to fluid retention), lower back pain, nausea, fatigue, and rash or fever. These could be signs of a kidney problem.
Frequently asked questions for Omeprazole
Omeprazole
Q. Can I take Omeprazole with domperidone?
This medicine can be safely taken with domperidone as no harmful effects have been reported clinically. A fixed-dose combination of these two medicines is also available. Domperidone works by increasing the gut motility and Omeprazole decreases the acid production in the stomach. So, this combination is very effective in the treatment of reflux esophagitis associated with acidity, heartburn, intestinal and stomach ulcers.
Q. What should I know before taking Omeprazole?
You should not take it if you are taking a medicine containing atazanavir and nelfinavir (used for HIV infection). Let your doctor know if you are suffering from any liver problems, persistent diarrhea or vomiting, black stools (blood-stained stools), unusual weight loss, trouble swallowing, stomach pain or indigestion. Tell your doctor about all the other medicines you are taking because they may affect, or be affected by, this medicine. Inform your doctor if you have or ever had an allergic skin reaction with this medicine. It should not be given to children who are less than 1 year of age or whose body weight is less than 10 kgs. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before taking this medicine to avoid harmful effects on the baby.
Q. Can Omeprazole cause diarrhea?
Yes, it may cause diarrhea as a side effect in some people. This is usually not bothersome, but if you experience persistent watery stools that do not go away, along with stomach cramps and fever, get medical help immediately.