PRILOSEC (OMEPRAZOLE)

Prilosec

Prilosec is a drug used to treat and prevent GERD.

Warnings and cautions-What to avoid?

Like every other medicine, this drug too has some associated warnings and cautions. People who are allergic to Omeprazole should avoid taking this drug. People suffering from liver problems, angina, loss in weight should inform or consult their doctor before commencing this medicine.
Once you start taking Prescription Prilosec drug, keep a check for signs such as excessive sweat, giddiness, angina, pain in the shoulder and breathlessness. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
This medicine should not be used for longer duration than recommended as it triggers the side effects. Prilosec and pregnancy do not go quite well together as it might cause harm to the unborn baby. Pregnant and nursing women should not take this medicine without consulting their doctor.

Introduction

Heartburn can cause extreme discomfort if becomes regular and is not treated well in time. When the fluids of the stomach which are acidic in nature enter the oesophagus, it causes heartburn. This is also known as acidic reflux. Causes of heartburn can be many including obesity, having larger meals, having oily food, lying down immediately after meal etc.
Heartburn that is occasional in nature can be treated with normal antacids. Frequent heartburn needs special medications which can be prescription or Over the Counter medicines, Prilosec being one of them.

It is a heartburn pill which works its way effectively through the stomach thus relieving the burning sensation in the heart. It works by inhibiting the release of hydrochloric acid from the gastric cells of the stomach. It is available as OTC and prescription drug.

What is the recommended quantity?

This drug is used to treat frequent heartburns. Prilosec generic Omeprazole is also the active ingredient in it. It should be taken one tablet a day for about 2 weeks. It is not an immediate relief tablet but starts working the first day after its intake. In case of Prescription Prilosec, it should be taken as directed by the doctor. If you miss your dose, it should not be taken in your next dose to cover up for the missed one as it might cause over-dosage triggering the side effects.

Are there any Side effects

There are some of the common side effects associated with this drug such as headache, pain in the abdomen, irregular bowel movement, feeling of nausea, pain in the legs and muscle spasm. If you experience any serious side effects which are bothersome, seek medical advice.

Intake Instructions-How to administer?

It should be taken exactly as directed by the doctor. The tablets should be taken once a day with water. It should be swallowed as a whole and should not be broken, crushed or chewed. In case of Prilosec OTC medicine, it should not be taken for more than 2 weeks. It is advisable to read the instruction leaflet inside the medicine box.