Omeprazole is the original and most widely used proton pump inhibitor (PPI), developed to block the final step of acid production in the stomach — far stronger and longer-lasting than antacids or ranitidine. Brand name: Losec / Prilosec; many generics available. All forms are enteric-coated, so it only dissolves in the intestine, not destroyed by stomach acid.
🧪 Composition & Forms
- Active: 20 mg omeprazole per unit; also 10mg, 40mg strengths
- Forms:
- Capsules: white/pink/yellow, filled with tiny enteric-coated pellets
- Tablets: oval, film-coated, marked “OM 20”
- Powder/suspension: for children or those who cannot swallow
- Injection: for severe cases in hospital
- Note: Do NOT crush or chew — will be destroyed and not work.
🎯 Main Uses
- GERD / Acid Reflux: heartburn, sour burps, regurgitation, throat pain
- Ulcers: stomach or duodenal ulcer — heals & prevents return
- H. pylori infection: taken + 2 antibiotics (amoxicillin + clarithromycin) to cure ulcer cause
- NSAID ulcers: prevents damage from painkillers (ibuprofen, mefenamic)
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: rare condition making too much acid
- Not for: simple occasional indigestion (use antacids instead).
⚙️ Dosage & Administration
- Adults:
- Standard: 20 mg ONCE daily, 30–60 MINUTES BEFORE FIRST MEAL (empty stomach works best)
- Severe reflux/ulcer: 20mg twice daily or 40mg once daily
- Course: 4–8 weeks to heal; maintenance 10–20mg daily long-term
- Children: 5–20mg daily, by weight
- Works for 24 hours — one dose controls acid all day.
⚠️ Side Effects
Most mild & temporary:
- Common: headache, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, gas, constipation
- Less common: dizziness, tiredness, dry mouth, rash
- ⚠️ Long-term warning (>1 year): May lower calcium/magnesium, slightly higher risk of bone fracture or infection — doctor monitoring needed
- Safe: very few allergies; well tolerated.
📌 Important Notes
- Strongest acid control available — #1 prescribed digestive drug globally
- Better than antacids (Gaviscon, Kremil-S) for daily or frequent symptoms
- Interacts with: clopidogrel, warfarin, some antibiotics — tell doctor
- Safe in pregnancy/breastfeeding
- Store cool, dry; protect from light.
Product Code: omepra
Product Condition : New