About Prilosec

Prilosec - or omeprazole - belongs to the group of antisecretory compounds which act as inhibitors of gastric juice secretion. Prilosec comes in delayed-release capsule for oral use. The latter Prilosec version is Prilosec OTC.

Uses or Indications

Doctors prescribe Prilosec for short-term therapy, usually not more that 1-2 months. The medication treats such disorders as stomach ulcer, erosive esophagitis, duodenal ulcer, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn.

Besides, Prilosec is effective for long-term treatment of disorders like erosive esophagitis and other conditions characterized by excessive secretion of stomach acid.

As for Prilosec OTC, it is applied to frequent heartburn treatment.

How to Use Prilosec

The most effective way to use Prilosec is to take it before meals. Don`t crush or chew the delayed-release capsule, but swallow it instead. If you have difficulties with swallowing, add the capsule to one tablespoon of applesauce, mix with water and take it immediately.

Patients under Prilosec should give up coffee. Keep on using the drug until the doctor tells otherwise.

Possible Side Effects

The most widespread Side Effects of Prilosec include abdominal pain, headache, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

If you combine the medication with clarithromycin, get ready to such possible Side Effects as tongue discoloration, nasal inflammation, sore throat, taste alternation and flu symptoms.

Once the drug is taken with amoxicillin and clarithromycin, potential Side Effects may also include headache, diarrhea and taste alternation.

In case any of the mentioned disorders developed to a definite level of intensity, you should contact your doctor right away.

Drug Precautions

• If you have allergic reaction to macrolide based antibiotics, you shouldn`t combine Prilosec with clarithromycin.
• If you opt for long-term treatment, keep in mind that it may result in serious inflammation of the stomach walls.
• The effect of Prilosec on pregnant women has not been tested. In case you are pregnant or plan to be one, consult with your doctor before taking Prilosec.
• Tests showed that Prilosec, as well as clarithromycin, are likely to appear in breast milk and have a negative impact on a breastfed infant. So check with your doctor who may advise to stop using the medication or breastfeeding.
• Prilosec`s healing effect can mask the signs of stomach cancer.

Drug Interaction

See your doctor before mixing Prilosec with Cyclosporine, Phenytoin, Ampicillin-containing drugs, Diazepam, Iron, Warfarin drugs, Ketoconazole and Disulfiram.

Missed Dose

If you occasionally missed a dose of Prilosec, skip it and just resume your regular schedule. It isn`t recommended to take two doses at once.

Overdose

Overdose symptoms usually include sweating, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, blurred vision, dry mouth, headache, confusion, drowsiness, nausea and flushing. Overdose with Prilosec is rare, but any medication taken in excess can be dangerous to your health. If overdose is suspected, look for medical attention immediately.

Storage

Store at room temperature with the container tightly closed, far from light and moisture.