So, you have collected your prescription of Omeprazole, as recommended by your doctor
or pharmacist. Great, these medications are effective treatments for indigestion, acid
reflux and stomach ulcers, providing you use them correctly.
You are probably wondering... • How and when should I take my Omeprazole?
• How long will I need to take my medication? • Are there any side effects?
This week, we will be answering the most frequent questions about your medication.
My name is Dr Hart-Pinto. In this series, we aim to answer the important questions about
your medications. At JHP medical we make weekly information
videos. So, if you find this video helpful, subscribe, click the notification bell and
the like button to support us in helping you.
What is Omeprazole? Omeprazole belongs to a group of medications
called proton pump inhibitors, PPIs. These medications reduce your stomach acid production
and are used to treat indigestion, acid reflux, and stomach ulcers.
This medication is generally safe and can be taken by most adults, including pregnant
and breastfeeding women. Omeprazole can also be safely used in babies and children, but
only on prescription from a doctor as smaller doses need to be calculated.
Who shouldn’t take Omeprazole?
You should avoid taking this medication if: • You have had a previous allergic reaction
to this type of medication. OR
• Or you have an upcoming endoscopy test o You will normally be asked to stop taking
your omeprazole before any endoscopy test. Omeprazole has the ability to mask some of
the problems your doctor will be looking for during this investigation.
This medication should also be used with caution in patients with liver problems.
Always speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication. It is important
to clarify if this is safe for you.
Is it safe to take omeprazole with my current medications?
Omeprazole has the potential to interact with several medications including:
• Digoxin, • Methotrexate
• Cilostazol • Medication used to prevent blood clotting
such as; • Clopidogrel & warfarin
• Some antifungal medications • Phenytoin
• Rifampicin • And HIV medications
St Johns wort, a herbal remedy used commonly for depression, can reduce the efficacy of
omeprazole. So please avoid St John's wort while you're taking omeprazole.
This is not an exhaustive list. For further info please see the drug information leaflet
that comes with your medication.
What is the correct dose of Omeprazole?
Dosing for omeprazole will vary based on the condition being treated. Dosing ranges between
10-120mg per day, with larger doses administered in 2 divided doses.
Patients with liver problems are prescribed lower doses, usually no more than 20mg daily.
How to take Omeprazole
If your medication is prescribed as a once-daily regime, take your medication first thing in
the morning. It's ok to take this medication without food. For a twice-daily regime take
your evening medication 12-hours after your morning dose.
Capsules and tablets should be taken with a glass of water. If you experience difficulty
swallowing your tablets, liquid preparations are available.
I've missed my dose what should I do?
If you forget to take your medication please take it as soon as you remember.
However, If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. You should be
ok to take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
I've accidentally taken too much medication.
If you have taken too much of this medication you should seek medical assessment.
Overdose of this medication can cause symptoms of:
· Confusion · flushed skin, sweats
· a fast heartbeat · Drowsiness
· And event blurred vision
How long will I need to take my medication?
Duration of treatment is dependant on your medical condition. For indigestion, heartburn
or acid reflux patients may require only a short course.
Other individuals may need to be on this medication for life long.
Low doses of this medication are available for short term relief off prescription. However,
if you need greater than 14 days of treatment, you should consult with a doctor.
Can I Drink Alcohol with this medication?
It is safe to take Alcohol with Omeprazole. However, be aware that alcohol can make symptoms
of indigestion and acid reflux worse.
I'm not feeling any benefit from Are there any side effects?
The vast majority of those taking omeprazole will not experience any side effects.
The more frequently reported side effects are:
• dry mouth, Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation, or diarrhoea
• Headaches or Dizziness • rash to your skin reactions; vomiting
Some rare but concerning side effects can occur. If they do, please seek immediate medical
assessment. • Liver problems
o If you notice a yellowing of your skin, eyes, a darkening of your urine you may be
developing liver failure. • Skin rashes developing on body parts exposed
to the sun, plus joint pain, can be signs of a rare complication caused by subacute
cutaneous lupus erythematous. • Omeprazole can cause a reduction in your
magnesium levels, which can result in muscle spasms, unusual heart rhythms and even seizures.
What side effects can occur with long term use?
Taking omeprazole long term may be necessary to keep your symptoms at bay. However, long
term use is associated with an increase in fractures, particularly in older individuals.
Naturally, stomach acid helps prevent infection by killing any unwanted bacteria ingested.
Omeprazole reduces stomach acid production. Therefore, this medication may increase your
risk of gastrointestinal infection.
Rarely omeprazole can cause vitamin B12 deficiency, more commonly in those with several years
of regular use. If you experience unusual weakness, altered sensation, sore tongue or
fatigue please consult your prescribing doctor.
The side effects discussed here are the more common and more severe associated with omeprazole
for a comprehensive list please review the drug information leaflet that comes with your
medication.
I hope this video has supplied the answers you were looking for.
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