A problem that many people in our country have is "gastritis". That means inflammation of the stomach, inflammation of the chest, and a sour taste in the throat. So when you go to see a doctor for a condition like this, you may have been prescribed a medicine called Omeprazole. This is a very common medicine. But it is very important that we are fully aware of how to use it and the possible side effects. So today, let's talk about this medicine called Omeprazole.
What exactly is Omeprazole?
Simply put, Omeprazole is a medicine that reduces the amount of acid produced in your stomach, that is, in your stomach. When our stomach produces too much acid, conditions like the aforementioned gastritis, heartburn, stomach ulcers, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occur.
Omeprazole belongs to a class of drugs called PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors) . You may have heard doctors use this name. These drugs work by blocking the small 'pumps' in the stomach that produce acid. This reduces acid production and gives you relief.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before you start using Omeprazole, it's important to discuss these things with your doctor, as this information may affect the dosage and duration of your treatment.
- If you have any liver disease .
- If you have been diagnosed with low levels of calcium, magnesium, or potassium in your blood .
- If you have a condition called Lupus .
- If you have an allergy to omeprazole, or to any other similar medicine, food, preservative, or coloring.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a baby .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
It is very important for your own safety to tell the doctor without hiding these things.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
To get the most out of a medication, it's important to use it as directed. Keep these things in mind when taking Omeprazole.
- This medicine should usually be taken about 30 minutes before a meal . Swallow the tablet/capsule with a glass of water.
- Very important: Never break, crush, or chew the capsule. It must be swallowed whole.
- Sometimes, especially for children or those who have difficulty swallowing, your doctor may tell you to break open the capsule and mix the small seeds inside with about a teaspoon of applesauce. If you do this, you should swallow the mixture immediately after making it . Do not chew the seeds.
- Get into the habit of taking your medicine at the same time every day. Don't take more than the doctor tells you to.
- Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.
Warning: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, or if a young child has taken it, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital .
This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share your medicine with others, even if they have the same symptoms you have.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
Other medications that may interact with Omeprazole
Omeprazole can interact with other medications, so it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. This includes vitamins, herbal products, and even Ayurvedic medicines.
| Drug category | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Do not take Omeprazole with this medicine. | |
| Some medications for HIV | Atazanavir, Nelfinavir, Rilpivirine |
| A medicine given to prevent blood clots | Clopidogrel |
| If you are taking this medication, inform your doctor when taking Omeprazole. | |
| Antifungal | Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, Voriconazole |
| Blood thinners | Warfarin |
| A medicine for heart disease | Digoxin |
| Stress, anxiety, and sleeping pills | Diazepam, Citalopram |
| Medicines for seizures | Carbamazepine, Phenytoin |
| Other | Methotrexate, Tacrolimus, Iron supplements, Vitamin B12, St. John's wort |
This list is not complete, so it's best to tell your doctor about all the medications you take.
Things to keep in mind when taking this medicine
- It may take a few days to feel better: Omeprazole may not completely relieve your stomach pain. It may take a few days for your symptoms to improve. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse.
- Diarrhea: If you get diarrhea while taking this medicine, do not buy medicine from the pharmacy yourself. If the diarrhea lasts more than two days, becomes watery, or is accompanied by a fever, call your doctor immediately.
- Long-term use: Some risks may arise when omeprazole is used for a long time (months, years).
- Weakened bones: Bones may become weak and increase the risk of bone fractures . Talk to your doctor about your bone health.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency: The body may have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12. Discuss your diet and vitamin intake with your doctor.
- Stomach Polyps: Small lumps (polyps) can develop in the stomach. These are usually not cancerous. However, if you experience stomach pain, nausea, blood in your stool, or black stools, tell your doctor .
Possible side effects of Omeprazole
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor or ETU immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Kidney injury | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Decreased magnesium levels | Muscle pain or twitching, unusual weakness, fast or irregular heartbeat. |
| Decreased vitamin B12 levels | Pain in the arms and legs, numbness, muscle weakness, dizziness, confusion. |
| Other skin problems | Worsening of lesions on the cheeks or hands, redness of the skin, blistering, and peeling of the skin when exposed to sunlight. |
| Severe diarrhea | Severe, watery diarrhea with fever. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | Nausea or vomiting |
| Stomach pain | Gas |
Take-Home Message
- Omeprazole is a medication that should be used under the advice of a doctor. It should usually be taken before meals.
- Swallow the capsule whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking (including vitamins, herbal, and Ayurvedic).
- If you use this medication long-term, talk to your doctor about the possible risks (bone weakness, vitamin B12 deficiency).
- If you experience any serious side effects, such as an allergic reaction, severe diarrhea, or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with others.
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