Prilosec

Generic name: Omeprazole

What is Prilosec?

Prilosec is prescribed for the short-term treatment of stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer, erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), heartburn, and other symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Prilosec is also used to treat patients whose ulcers are caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori; to maintain healing of erosive esophagitis; and for the long-term treatment of conditions in which too much stomach acid is secreted, including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Prilosec OTC, an over-the-counter product, is approved only for frequent heartburn (occurring 2 or more days a week).

What is the most important information I should know about Prilosec?

Long-term use of Prilosec may cause severe stomach inflammation. Prilosec may mask the signs of stomach cancer.

Who should not take Prilosec?

Do not take Prilosec if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Prilosec or any of its ingredients. Avoid the Prilosec/Biaxin combination treatment if you are allergic to certain antibiotics called macrolides, or if you are taking Orap. Do not take amoxicillin if you are allergic to any of the penicillin drugs.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Prilosec?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Prilosec. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver disease.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Gastric Ulcer

Adults: The usual dose is 40 mg once a day for 4 to 8 weeks.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Adults: The usual dose for people with symptoms of GERD is 20 mg daily for up to 4 weeks. For erosive esophagitis accompanied by GERD symptoms, the usual dose is 20 mg day for 4 to 8 weeks. The dose may be continued to maintain healing.

Children 1 to 16 years: For children weighing 11 to 22 pounds, the usual dose is 5 mg a day; for children weighing 22 to 44 pounds, the usual dose is 10 mg a day. For those weighing 44 pounds or more, the usual dose is 20 mg a day. For children with erosive esophagitis, your doctor will determine the correct dose based on the child's weight.

Short-term Treatment of Active Duodenal Ulcer

Adults: The usual dose is 20 milligrams (mg) once a day. Most people heal within 4 weeks, although some require an additional 4 weeks of Prilosec therapy.

Treatment of Duodenal Ulcers Caused by H. Pylori

Adults: In combination therapy with Biaxin alone, the usual dosage is 40 mg of Prilosec once daily and 500 mg of Biaxin 3 times a day for 14 days, followed by 20 mg of Prilosec once daily for an additional 14 days.

If amoxicillin is included in the treatment, the recommended dosage is 20 mg of Prilosec, 500 mg of Biaxin, and 1,000 mg of amoxicillin twice a day for 10 days, followed by 20 mg of Prilosec once daily for an additional 18 days.

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (and Other Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions)

Adults: The usual starting dose is 60 mg once a day. If you take more than 80 mg a day, your doctor will divide the total into smaller doses. The dosing will be based on your needs.

The safety and effectiveness of Prilosec have not been studied in children <1 year old.

How should I take Prilosec?

Prilosec works best when taken before meals. It may be taken with an antacid.

Swallow the capsule whole. It should not be opened, chewed, or crushed. You may also empty the contents of the Prilosec capsule onto a tablespoonful of applesauce, mix, and swallow with a glass of cool water. Use cool, soft applesauce. Do not chew or crush the pellets. Use the mixture immediately. Do not store it.

It may take several days for Prilosec to begin relieving stomach pain. Continue taking the drug exactly as prescribed.

What should I avoid while taking Prilosec?

Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine while taking Prilosec.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Prilosec?

If Prilosec is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Prilosec with the following: ampicillin-containing drugs, atazanavir, cyclosporine, diazepam, disulfiram, iron, ketoconazole, phenytoin, tacrolimus, warfarin

What are the possible side effects of Prilosec?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, nausea, vomiting

When taken with Biaxin, side effects may also include: flu symptoms, nasal inflammation, sore throat, taste alteration, tongue discoloration

When taken with amoxicillin and Biaxin, side effects may also include: diarrhea, headache, taste alteration

Can I receive Prilosec if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Prilosec during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Avoid combined therapy with Biaxin unless there is no alternative. Prilosec (and Biaxin) may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Prilosec is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Prilosec is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Prilosec?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Prilosec?

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light and moisture.