Omeprazole
Stomach and refluxAlso known as Prilosec
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It switches off many of the tiny pumps in your stomach lining that make acid. Less acid means heartburn eases and irritated tissue gets a chance to heal. It works best taken before a meal, because eating is what wakes those pumps up.
How to take it
When
30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, once a day, unless your label says otherwise.
Food
Before eating — that timing is the trick to making it work well.
Avoid
Crushing or chewing capsules — the coating protects the medicine from your stomach acid. Also avoid staying on it for months without a doctor's review.
How long
Often a short course (a few weeks). Long-term use should be a deliberate decision with your doctor, not a habit.
Missed a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember that day. If it's nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Don't double up.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Stomach ache, gas, or diarrhea
- Nausea
Call a doctor if
- Black, tarry stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds — signs of bleeding, get help now
- Trouble or pain when swallowing
- Heartburn with unintended weight loss, or symptoms that keep returning the moment you stop
- Severe, watery diarrhea that won't quit