Omeprazole Magnesium Gastro-resistant tablet Health Article

Generic name(s):

Omeprazole Magnesium Gastro-resistant tablet

Brand name(s):

Prilosec, Prilosec OTC

What is this medicine?

OMEPRAZOLE (oh ME pray zol) prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It is used to treat the symptoms of heartburn. You can buy this medicine without a prescription. This product is not for long-term use, unless otherwise directed by your doctor or health care professional.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• black or bloody stools
• chest pain
• difficulty swallowing
• have had heartburn for over 3 months
• have heartburn with dizziness, lightheadedness or sweating
• liver disease
• stomach pain
• unexplained weight loss
• vomiting with blood
• wheezing
• an unusual or allergic reaction to omeprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the product label. Take one tablet every day for 14 days in a row. Do not skip any doses. Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water. Do not crush, break or chew. This medicine works best if taken on an empty stomach 30 minutes before breakfast. Take your dose at regular intervals every 24 hours. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• atazanavir

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• ampicillin
• diazepam
• digoxin
• iron salts
• phenytoin
• prescription medicine for fungal or yeast infection like itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole
• tacrolimus
• warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

It can take several days before your heartburn gets better. Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better, or if it gets worse.

Do not treat yourself for heartburn with this medicine for more than 14 days in a row. You should only use this medicine for a 2-week treatment period once every 4 months. If your symptoms return shortly after your therapy is complete, or within the 4 month time frame, call your doctor or health care professional.