What is Omeprazole and what is it used for?
Medication used to treat the symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn often characterised by a pain in the chest. It contains the active ingredient omeprazole, a drug that belongs to a group of medications called ‘proton pump inhibitors’.
What is Acid Reflux (GORD)?
Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD) is when acid from the stomach escapes into the oesophagus (the tube connecting your stomach and throat) and causing heartburn, pain and inflammation. Normally, there is a barrier between the stomach and the oesophagus that prevents the acid from escaping. In acid reflux, this barrier is impaired.
How does it work?
Omeprazole works by reducing the amount of acid that your stomach produces and so helps to reduce the symptoms associated with acid reflux.
How should I take Omeprazole?
Adults should take one 20mg capsule once a day for 4 weeks and continue for another 4-8 weeks if not fully healed. It is best to swallow the capsules whole with water in the morning. It is important to not chew or break these capsules or they will not work properly.
Like most medication, Omeprazole can have some side effects, although not everyone will experience them. The most common side effects include:
- headache
- diarrhoea
- stomach pain
- flatulence
- nausea
- vomiting
- constipation
Information Leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
- The patient information leaflet can be found here.