Omeprazole

What Is This Medication?

Omeprazole—commonly known by brand names such as Prilosec, Biocid, Lokit, and Omcure—is a widely used prescription medication that reduces stomach acid.
Doctors prescribe it to treat conditions where excess acid plays a role, including:

• GERD (acid reflux)

• Dyspepsia (indigestion)

• Stomach and duodenal ulcers

• Laryngopharyngeal reflux

• Zollinger–Ellison syndrome

Omeprazole is one of the most commonly used medications worldwide for acid-related disorders.

How It Works

Omeprazole is a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI).
PPIs work by blocking the stomach’s acid-producing pumps, helping to:

• Reduce acid levels

• Relieve discomfort

• Allow the stomach and esophagus to heal

It may also be used in combination with other medications for more complex ulcer treatments.

How to Store It

• Keep omeprazole in a cool, dry, dark place

• Store away from children

• Do not use expired medication; replace it with a fresh supply

How to Take Omeprazole

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor

• Do not change your dose without medical advice

• Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve early

• Omeprazole may affect certain lab test results—inform medical staff that you are taking it

• Ask your doctor about possible interactions if you take other medications

Stopping too early can cause symptoms to return or worsen.

Dosage

Your doctor will prescribe a dose based on:

• Your condition

• Your health history

• Your treatment response

Always follow the prescribed regimen.

Missed Dose

• Take it as soon as you remember

• Skip it if your next dose is due soon

• Never double a dose

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Warnings & Precautions

• Omeprazole may be used together with antibiotics or other medications when treating ulcers—take all prescribed medicines as directed

• Do not continue using omeprazole longer than instructed, unless your doctor recommends it

• Omeprazole may interact with other medications, affecting how they work—always discuss your full medication list with your doctor

Possible Side Effects

Common mild side effects:

• Headache

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Gas or stomach pain

• Cold-like symptoms

• Low-grade fever

Seek medical attention if you notice:

• Watery or bloody diarrhea

• Symptoms of low magnesium (confusion, dizziness, jerking movements, muscle cramps, seizures)

Treating GERD, Ulcers & Acid-Related Conditions

If you have GERD, ulcers, or other acid-related issues, your doctor may prescribe omeprazole as part of your treatment plan.
It helps reduce symptoms and promotes healing when used as directed.

When Should Omeprazole NOT Be Used?

Do not take omeprazole if:

• You are allergic to omeprazole

• You are allergic to similar medications (e.g., albendazole or mebendazole)

Also inform your doctor if you have any chronic medical conditions.

How Long Should You Take It?

Take omeprazole for the full duration prescribed by your doctor.
Stopping early may allow the condition to return or worsen.