DrugDigest  
 
    Search
 
  Drugs & Herbs
  Conditions
  News & Reviews
7 Steps to Safety
Check For Savings
Senior Corner
Glossary
eBulletins
Home
Express Scripts Member?

Drugs & Vitamins

Printable Version Omeprazole

Active Ingredients: Omeprazole capsules  
Representative Names: Prilosec
Available Product Images:

What are omeprazole capsules?
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
How should I take this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What drug(s) may interact with omeprazole?
What side effects may I notice from taking omeprazole?
What should I watch for while taking omeprazole?
Where can I keep my medicine?

What are omeprazole capsules? (Back to top)
OMEPRAZOLE (Prilosec®) prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It reduces symptoms and prevents injury to the esophagus, stomach, or intestines in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or ulcers. Omeprazole is also useful in conditions that cause excessive stomach acid production such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and certain cancers. Generic omeprazole capsules are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•liver disease
•an unusual or allergic reaction to omeprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine? (Back to top)
Take omeprazole capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water; do not crush, break or chew. The capsules can be opened and the contents sprinkled on a small amount of applesauce or yogurt, given with fruit juices, or swallowed immediately with water. Omeprazole works best if taken on an empty stomach. It is best to take the capsules 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with omeprazole? (Back to top)
•ampicillin
•diazepam
•digoxin
•disulfiram
•doxercalciferol
•iron salts
•itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole or other prescription medicines for fungus or yeast infections
•phenytoin
•tacrolimus
•warfarin

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from taking omeprazole? (Back to top)
Serious side effects are rare. Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•blood in urine
•chest pain or tightness
•dark yellow or brown urine
•fever or sore throat
•pain or difficulty passing urine
•redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
•shortness of breath
•skin rash
•unusual bleeding or bruising
•yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•headache
•diarrhea or constipation

What should I watch for while taking omeprazole? (Back to top)
It can take several days of therapy with omeprazole before your stomach condition improves. Check with your prescriber or health care professional if your condition does not improve, or if it gets worse. You can take antacids for the occasional relief of pain unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you otherwise.

Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.


Last Updated:03/24/2006

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY©
GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED


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.

  Do you take Omeprazole?


  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Omeprazole

 Compare Omeprazole to similar drugs

  Learn how Omeprazole is used to treat:
  • Peptic Ulcer Disease
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Omeprazole, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



    Printable Version     Recommend this page to a friend