Prilosec is an oral capsule consisting of a proton pump inhibitor called omeprazole. This medication is also known as Losec, and can be purchased in both the brand choice and generic alternative in 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg!

Prilosec is used to treat conditions caused by excessive stomach acid production, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a digestive disorder caused by acid from the stomach being backed up into the esophagus. The stomach has a protective mucus lining that protects it from the acid, which is why the stomach is not affected by it, however the esophagus does not have this protective lining so when stomach acid comes in contact with the esophagus, it will become irritated and may result in a burning pain or discomfort, or heartburn. Eventually over time, the esophagus may become damaged. Prilosec is also used to promote healing of damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid (erosive esophagitis).

Prilosec (omeprazole) is effective at treating conditions associated with excess stomach acid because as a proton pump inhibitor, it is able to decrease the amount of acid being produced in the stomach.

Follow only the directions given to you by your doctor. Do not take more or less of a dose than directed. For the full benefit of the medication, ensure you take it regularly and create a routine by taking it around the same time every day.

Take this medication by mouth, usually once a day, before a meal. Swallow the capsule whole. If you cannot swallow the capsule whole, you may break open the capsule and sprinkle the medication into a soft food, such as apple sauce. Swallow the mixture immediately after mixing; do not chew the mixture.

Store this medication at room temperature in a low risk area of heat and moisture.

Do not use Prilosec (omeprazole)

Prilosec should not be used by anyone who is allergic to omeprazole or other similar medications (such as esomeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, Nexium, Prevacid, Protonix, and others), or if you take HIV medications that contain rilpivirine (such as Complera, Edurant, Odefsey, or Juluca).

Do not give this medication to a child. This should only be done under the approval of a doctor.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

Before using Prilosec, tell your doctor if you have trouble or pain while swallowing, bloody or black stools, vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds, heartburn that has lasted longer than 3 months, frequent chest pain, heartburn with wheezing, unexplained weight loss, nausea or vomiting, stomach pain, liver disease, low levels of magnesium in the blood, or osteoporosis or low bone mineral density.

Risks

You may be more likely to break a bone in your hip, wrist, or spine while using Prilosec long term or more than once per day. Consult your doctor if this concerns you.

Avoid using this medication until you have discussed the risks and benefits of this drug if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Common side effects of Prilosec (omeprazole) may include:

stomach pain, gas; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; or headache.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Prilosec (omeprazole) may include:

severe stomach pain, diarrhea that is watery or bloody; new or unusual pain in your wrist, thigh, hip, or back; or seizure (convulsions).

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…

kidney problems: little or no urinating, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath;

low magnesium: dizziness, fast or irregular heart rate, tremors (shaking) or jerking muscle movements, feeling jittery, muscle cramps, muscle spasms in your hands and feet, cough or choking feeling; or

new or worsening symptoms of lupus: joint pain, and a skin rash on your cheeks or arms that worsens in sunlight.

What is the best dosage to take?

For the treatment of erosive esophagitis in an adult; take 20mg once a day for as long as your doctor prescribes it for. Treatment does not typically go beyond 12 months.

Does it have any medication interactions?

Yes. Some examples of drugs that interact with Prilosec include clopidogrel; methotrexate; St. John's wort; or an antibiotic - amoxicillin, clarithromycin, rifampin.

This is not a complete list of drugs that interact with omeprazole (Prilosec). Consult your doctor to learn more about which drugs interact with omeprazole.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the miss dose as soon as you remember or skip it if your next dose is approaching soon. Do not attempt to make up for a miss dose by doubling up on dosages.

What is the best way to store this medication?

Store this medication at room temperature in a low risk area of heat and moisture. Ensure it is in an area not accessible by children or pets.