OTC: Omeprazole

Having stomach issues like heartburn or acid reflux? This video is for you! I'll be going over omeprazole, an over-the-counter medication used to treat heartburn or acid reflux.

Omeprazole, which is sold under the brand name Prilosec, is used to treat frequent and uncomplicated cases of heartburn in adults. Frequent means that heartburn occurs at least twice a week. This medication works by suppressing acid secretion.

Omeprazole is available as a capsule or tablet. It is best to take this medication 30 to 60 minutes before meals. Be sure to take with a full glass of water and swallow the tablet or capsule whole, making sure not to crush or chew. You may take this medication with antacids.

Typical Dosing: Oral: 20 mg once daily for 14 days; treatment may be repeated after 4 months if needed.

This medication should not be taken if you have trouble or pain when swallowing. Do not take omeprazole if you are vomiting up blood, or have bloody or black stools. Additionally, do not use if you experience heartburn with lightheadedness, dizziness or sweating, or any chest or shoulder pain with shortness of breath or radiating pain, as these are serious conditions that you should report to your doctor or pharmacist. If your heartburn continues beyond 14 days of treatment or if you need more than one course of treatment every 4 months, be sure to inform your healthcare provider.

Omeprazole can cause common adverse effects like headache, nausea, diarrhea, or gas .

Omeprazole can interact with several medications and it should not be taken if you are taking clopidogrel, or Plavix. Be sure to inform your pharmacist that you are taking omeprazole, so they can check for any other potential drug interactions. If you have had heartburn for longer than 3 months, have unexplained weight loss, or nausea and vomiting, tell your doctor or pharmacist before beginning this medication.

In summary, omeprazole is an over-the-counter medication used to treat heartburn and acid reflux. This should be taken once daily, for fourteen days, with a repeat treatment after four months if necessary. It is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are experiencing weight loss or mood changes, if you have trouble swallowing, or have bloody or black stool. If you have questions about omeprazole, talk to your doctor or pharmacist today.