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Uses of Prilosec

OMEPRAZOLE (Prilosec) prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It reduces symptoms and prevents injury to the esophagus, stomach, or intestines in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or ulcers. Omeprazole is also useful in conditions that cause excessive stomach acid production such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and certain cancers. Generic omeprazole capsules are available.

How to take Prilosec

Take omeprazole capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water; do not crush, break or chew. The capsules can be opened and the contents sprinkled on applesauce or yogurt, given with fruit juices, or swallowed immediately with water. Omeprazole works best if taken on an empty stomach. It is best to take the capsules 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Serious side effects are rare, occurring in 1% or fewer of patients, they include:; 

blood in urine; chest pain or tightness; dark yellow or brown urine; fever or sore throat; pain or difficulty passing urine; redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth; shortness of breath; skin rash; unusual bleeding or bruising; yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):; headache; diarrhea or constipation

It can take several days of therapy with omeprazole before your stomach pains improve. Check with your prescriber or health care professional if your condition does not improve, or if it gets worse. You can take antacids for the occasional relief of pain unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you otherwise.

ampicillin; bosentan; diazepam; digoxin; iron salts; ketoconazole; phenytoin; voriconazole; warfarin

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

Health Care Professional need to know if you have any of these conditions:; liver disease; an unusual or allergic reaction to omeprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives; pregnant or trying to get pregnant; breast-feeding

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture.