Omeprazole

Omeprazole is a proton-pump inhibitor that is often prescribed for the treatment of acid reflux.

It is also prescribed to heal and prevent peptic ulcers, and to treat Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare condition that causes excessive acid in the stomach.

What is the difference between Omeprazole and Lansoprazole?

Omeprazole and Lansoprazole are both proton pump inhibitors used to effectively treat the same conditions. A lower dose of Omeprazole can be purchased over the counter from a pharmacy without a prescription, while Lansoprazole requires a prescription.

Omeprazole belongs to a class of medications called ‘proton pump inhibitors’. It works by reducing the amount of acid created by proton pumps, the acid-producing section of stomach cells.

The reduction in stomach acid prevents damage to the oesophagus and provides symptomatic relief.

How long does it take Omeprazole to work?

Most people will begin to feel better after 2 to 3 days of treatment, but it can take up to four weeks to begin working, depending on your condition.

This medication should be taken according to the doctor’s instructions.

It is available from euroClinix in the form of 10mg and 20mg capsules. Your dose will depend on your condition and age.

You should take this medication in the morning, with or without food. The capsules should be swallowed whole with half a glass of water.

Do not crush or chew the capsules, as it will reduce the effectiveness of the medication. If you have trouble swallowing the capsules, you can open the capsule and pour the contents into a glass of water, being careful not to crush the granules.

If you take more than you are supposed to, seek immediate medical attention.

Read the patient information leaflet for further information.

Omeprazole side effects include:

If any of these become particularly concerning, or if you develop more serious side effects, such as an allergic reaction, stop taking these capsules and contact your doctor immediately.

A complete list of side effects can be found in the patient information leaflet.

Do not use Omeprazole if you:

• have an allergy to any of the ingredients in this medication
• are pregnant or breastfeeding

Tell your doctor if you:

• have severe liver problems
• have experienced an adverse skin reaction to treatments that reduce stomach acid in the past
• are taking atazanavir
• are due to have a Chromogranin A test
• have a vitamin B12 deficiency

Taking Omeprazole for more than three months can cause blood levels of magnesium to fall. Symptoms of low levels of magnesium include fatigue, involuntary muscle contractions, disorientation, convulsions, dizziness, and increased heart rate. Seek immediate medical help if you experience this.

When taken for long periods of time, proton pump inhibitors like Omeprazole may increase the risk of bone fracture in the hip, wrist or spine. Let your doctor know if you have osteoporosis or are currently on corticosteroids, a type of medication that can increase your risk of osteoporosis.

During your consultation, it is important that you detail your medical history, including any medications and supplements you are currently taking, as Omeprazole may interact with these.

For a full list of precautions and interactions, read the patient information leaflet.

Omeprazole and alcohol

Alcohol will not affect the way the medication works, but drinking alcohol can increase the amount of acid your stomach produces and irritate the stomach lining, making your symptoms worse.

You can buy Omeprazole 20mg and 10mg capsules online from euroClinix.

Simply complete a quick and simple online consultation, which will then be reviewed by our doctors before being sent to our UK pharmacy for dispatch. All orders come with free next-day or nominated day delivery.

Can I buy Omeprazole over the counter?

The lowest strength can be purchased over the counter without a prescription, but higher doses, such as Omeprazole 20mg, require a prescription.