Omeprazole

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). This medication may be used in combination with antibiotics to treat certain types of ulcers caused by bacterial infection.

How to Take:
Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily, 15 to 30 minutes before a meal; or as directed by your doctor. Do not crush, break or chew the medication. Swallow the medication whole. If you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, the capsule may be opened and the contents sprinkled onto cool applesauce and taken as directed. Do not chew the food/medication mixture or prepare a supply in advance; this may destroy the drug and/or increase side effects. Drink a glass of cool water after each dose to ensure complete swallowing of the medication. 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. 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.

Precautions:
Before taking omeprazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar drugs (e.g., lansoprazole, pantoprazole); or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors). Some symptoms may actually be signs of a more serious condition. Tell your doctor immediately if you have: heartburn combined with lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain (especially with trouble breathing), pain spreading to arms/neck/shoulders, unexplained weight loss. This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:
This drug should not be used with the following medications because very serious interactions may occur: atazanavir. If you are currently using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting omeprazole. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: cilostazol, cyclosporine, diazepam, disulfiram, phenytoin, voriconazole, warfarin. Omeprazole can decrease the effectiveness of certain drugs which require stomach acid in order to be absorbed. Before using this medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist on how to manage such a potential interaction if you are taking the following drugs: ampicillin, azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), iron supplements. Based on information for similar drugs, omeprazole may increase the amount of digoxin that is absorbed into your blood. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details if you also take digoxin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include: confusion, unusual sweating, blurred vision, unusually fast heartbeat.

Notes:
Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress or check for side effects.

Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage:
Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.