Prilosec (omeprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) indicated for the treatment of frequent heartburn and acid-related disorders. As a leader in gastrointestinal therapeutics, it works by directly inhibiting acid production at its source within the gastric parietal cells. This medication is designed for those who experience symptoms two or more days per week, providing clinically proven, 24-hour relief with a single daily dose. Its prescription-strength formulation targets the underlying mechanism of acid overproduction, offering a superior approach to episodic antacid use.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Omeprazole 20 mg (as delayed-release tablets)
• Drug Class: Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)
• Administration: Oral, once daily
• Formulation: Delayed-release to ensure targeted delivery to the small intestine
• Available in 14-day and 28-day course packs
• FDA-approved for multiple acid-related conditions

Benefits

• Provides 24-hour relief from frequent heartburn with one daily dose
• Heals acid damage to the esophagus (erosive esophagitis)
• Reduces the risk of stomach ulcer recurrence in patients on NSAIDs
• Effectively manages symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Allows for normal eating and sleeping patterns without acid interruption
• Clinically proven to decrease gastric acid secretion by over 90%

Common use

Prilosec is commonly prescribed for the short-term treatment (4-8 weeks) of active duodenal ulcers, active benign gastric ulcers, erosive esophagitis, and symptomatic GERD. It is also used for maintenance healing of erosive esophagitis and for pathological hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Many patients use it for the treatment of frequent heartburn occurring two or more days per week.

Dosage and direction

The recommended adult dosage for most conditions is 20 mg once daily before a meal. For active duodenal ulcer: 20 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks. For GERD: 20 mg daily for 4-8 weeks. For maintenance of healing of erosive esophagitis: 20 mg once daily. For hypersecretory conditions: 60 mg once daily (dose may be adjusted based on patient response). Tablets should be swallowed whole with water; do not crush, chew, or split tablets as this may destroy the protective enteric coating.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for response to therapy and potential need for dosage adjustment. Long-term use (beyond one year) requires periodic evaluation of the patient’s condition. Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment as omeprazole is metabolized in the liver. There may be an increased risk of bone fractures with long-term, high-dose PPI therapy. Monitor for vitamin B12 deficiency with prolonged treatment, as acid suppression may impair absorption.

Contraindications

Prilosec is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to omeprazole or any component of the formulation. Concomitant use with rilpivirine-containing products is contraindicated due to potential for decreased antiviral efficacy. Should not be used by patients taking clopidogrel due to potential interaction that may reduce clopidogrel’s effectiveness.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (≥1%) include headache, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and flatulence. Less common side effects may include dizziness, rash, constipation, dry mouth, and fatigue. Serious side effects requiring medical attention include severe diarrhea, kidney problems, low magnesium levels (which can cause muscle spasms, irregular heartbeat, and seizures), and vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use.

Drug interaction

Omeprazole may interact with drugs that require gastric acid for absorption, including ketoconazole, iron salts, and digoxin. It may increase concentrations of diazepam, warfarin, and phenytoin. Concomitant use with methotrexate may increase methotrexate levels. May reduce the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel. May interact with St. John’s Wort and rifampin, potentially reducing omeprazole effectiveness.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Resume the regular dosing schedule. Consistency in dosing is important for optimal acid control.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include confusion, drowsiness, blurred vision, tachycardia, nausea, sweating, flushing, headache, and dry mouth. There is no specific antidote for omeprazole overdose. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis is not effective for removing omeprazole due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F). Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed to protect from moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use if the blister pack is torn or broken.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication. Individual results may vary. Only a qualified healthcare provider can determine if Prilosec is appropriate for your specific medical condition.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Prilosec provides complete relief of heartburn in most patients within 1-4 days of treatment. In trials for healing erosive esophagitis, 77-84% of patients showed complete healing after 8 weeks of therapy. Patients report significant improvement in quality of life measures, including reduced nighttime awakening due to heartburn and improved ability to eat desired foods. Many users describe it as “life-changing” for managing chronic acid reflux symptoms that were previously uncontrolled with other medications.