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Brand Name: Prilosec

Generic Name: omeprazole

A proton pump inhibitor - It prevents the production of acid in the stomach

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What is this medicine?

Prilosec (oh ME pray zol) prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, certain bacteria in the stomach, inflammation of the esophagus, and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. It is also used to treat other conditions that cause too much stomach acid.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They 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

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with water. Empty the contents of 1 packet into a container of water. The package your medicine comes in will tell you how much water to use. Stir gently and allow 2 to 3 minutes to thicken. Stir again and drink the medicine. Drink it within 30 minutes after mixing. If any medicine remains after drinking, add more water, stir, and drink at once. This medicine works best if taken on an empty stomach 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

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.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

ampicillin
cyclosporine
diazepam
digoxin
disulfiram
iron salts
itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, or other prescription medicines for fungus or yeast infections
phenytoin
saquinavir
tacrolimus
warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

It can take several days before your stomach pain gets better. Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better, or if it gets worse.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Serious side effects are rare. Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

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

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

diarrhea or constipation
headache

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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