Generic Prilosec - omeprazole - is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), it is used in adults for the short-term treatment of active ulcers of the duodenum, active benign gastric ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD - heartburn, or stomach contents rising back into the food pipe), erosive inflammation of the esophagus and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production. Prilosec is also used for the long-term treatment of conditions that increase gastric acid secretion (eg, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). Omeprazole can also be used in combination with other medicines to treat and eliminate H. pylori infection and associated active ulcers of the duodenum.


 

FAQ

How does Prilosec work?
Prilosec (brand name made by AstraZeneca plc) or Omeprazole (generic Prilosec) is in a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPI) which block the production of acid by the stomach. Other drugs in the same class include lansoprazole (Prevacid), rabeprazole (Aciphex), pantoprazole (Protonix), and esomeprazole (Nexium). Proton pump inhibitors are used for the treatment of conditions such as ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and the Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome which are all caused by stomach acid. Omeprazole, like other proton-pump inhibitors, blocks the enzyme in the wall of the stomach that produces acid. By blocking the enzyme, the production of acid is decreased, and this allows the stomach and esophagus to heal.

Prilosec dosing
For ulcers, GERD and eradication of H. pylori the recommended dose of Prilosec for adults is 20-40 mg daily. Ulcer healing usually occurs within 4-8 weeks. H. pylori infections are treated for 10-28 days. Omeprazole OTC has been approved for more severe heartburn for up to two weeks.

For the management of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome the starting dose of Prilosec for adults is 60 mg daily, and the dose is adjusted based on either the response of symptoms or the actual measurement of acid production. Doses greater than 80 mg should be divided. Doses up to 120 mg three times a day have been used in the treatment of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.

For maximal efficacy, omeprazole tablets should be taken before meals, swallowed whole and should not be crushed, chewed or opened.

Prilosec side effects
Omeprazole like other PPIs is well-tolerated. The most common side effects are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headaches, rash and dizziness. Nervousness, abnormal heartbeat, muscle pain, weakness, leg cramps and water retention occur infrequently.

Each dose of omeprazole powder for oral suspension contains 460 mg of sodium, and this should be taken into consideration in patients who need a sodium restricted diet.

Special warnings about Prilosec
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies. Prilosec should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether omeprazole passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using Prilosec is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.