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Omeprazole
Brand
Name: Prilosec
Most
Common Medical Uses
Omeprazole
is used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or
heartburn), and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid
production. Omeprazole may also be used for purposes other than
those listed here.
How
to Take This Medication
Take
omeprazole exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand
these instructions, ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain them
to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Omeprazole is
usually taken before a meal. Follow your doctor's instructions.
The pellets should not be chewed or crushed.
Possible
Side Effects
If
you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing
of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives),
stop taking omeprazole and seek emergency medical attention. Other,
less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue
to take omeprazole and talk to your doctor if you experience drowsiness,
dizziness, or headache; diarrhea, increased gas, or bloating; or
itching. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur.
Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or
that is especially bothersome.
Precautions
There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while
taking omeprazole, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Drug
Interactions
Before
taking omeprazole, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the
following medicines warfarin (Coumadin); digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps);
a medicine for insomnia or anxiety such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam
(Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), temazepam (Restoril), clorazepate (Tranxene),
chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and others; cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune);
• You may not be able to take omeprazole, or you may require
a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any
of the medicines listed above. Drugs other than those listed here
may also interact with omeprazole. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist
before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including
herbal products.
Missed
Dose
Take
the missed dose as soon as you remember if it is within an hour
or so of your scheduled time. If you do not remember until later,
skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not
take 2 doses at once.
Storage
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this
and all medications out of the reach of children.
Notes
Continue taking omeprazole even if you begin to feel better. Your
symptoms may improve before the condition is fully treated. Do not
share omeprazole with others for whom it was not prescribed, since
they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by this
drug.
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