IMPORTANT NOTE: The
following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the
expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is
safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional
before using this drug.
OMEPRAZOLE DELAYED RELEASE - ORAL (oh-MEH-pruh-zole)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Prilosec
USES: Omeprazole is used to treat various acid-related stomach and/or
throat (esophagus) problems (e.g., GERD, ulcers, erosive esophagitis, or
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome). It works by blocking the production of acid in the
stomach. When using this medication to treat certain ulcers, it may be
prescribed along with certain antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin, clarithromycin).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily, 15 to 30
minutes before a meal; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage and length of
treatment is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not
crush or chew the medication. Swallow the medication whole. If you take
sucralfate in addition to this medication, take your dose of omeprazole at
least 30 minutes before your sucralfate.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, diarrhea, gas, or constipation, may occur. If
any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: rash, stomach/abdominal
pain, back pain, unusual tiredness, dizziness, vomiting. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: chest
pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin. An allergic reaction to this drug is
unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an
allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing. If you
notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver
problems, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies. This medication
should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and
benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast
milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using
this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and
nonprescription medication you may use, especially: diazepam, "blood
thinners" (e.g., warfarin), hydantoins (e.g., phenytoin), azole
antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), ampicillin, iron supplements,
sucralfate, cilostazol. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or
pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include:
confusion, unusual sweating, blurred vision, unusually fast heartbeat,
seizures.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or
medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it
is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual
dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30
degrees C) away from light and moisture.