Prilosec

The active ingredient in Prilosec is omeprazole magnesium. Prilosec is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that lowers the amount of acid made in the stomach, preventing excess acid production. It is an effective stomach acid reducer that treats frequent heartburn.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Prilosec. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Prilosec:

• Use Prilosec OTC (over-the-counter) Delayed Release Tablets exactly as directed on the label or as your doctor prescribes. OTC Prilosec should only be taken for a 14-day course of treatment. It may take 1 to 4 days before your symptoms improve.
• If you cannot swallow a capsule whole, sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow the mixture immediately without chewing.
• If you miss a dose, take the medicine as soon as possible, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
• Antacids may be taken along with this medication if needed.

The most common side effects of Prilosec seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Headache.
• Stomach pain.
• Nausea.
• Diarrhea.
• Vomiting.
• Passing gas.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Prilosec. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe stomach pain or diarrhea.
• Kidney problems.
• Serious allergic reaction - blistering skin, fever, chills, trouble breathing.
• Seizures (convulsions).
• Lightheadedness.
• Low magnesium - dizziness, muscle cramps, or muscle spasms.
• New or worsening symptoms of lupus - joint pain and a skin rash that exacerbates in sunlight.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Prilosec. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Prilosec, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Heartburn that has endured for over 3 months, as this could be a sign of a more serious condition.
• Allergic to medicines like omeprazole (Esomeprazole, Lansoprazole, Pantoprazole, Rabeprazole, Nexium, Prevacid, Protonix).
• Low levels of magnesium in your blood.
• Osteoporosis or low bone mineral density (osteopenia).
• Liver disease.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Difficulty or pain with swallowing, bloody or black stools, or vomit that looks like blood.
• Chest pain or shoulder pain.
• Kidney problems.
• Frequent chest pain, heartburn with wheezing, and shortness of breath.

• You should not take Prilosec if you are on Edurant (rilpivirine) or other medications that contain rilpivirine. You should also avoid it if you have a history of allergies to PPIs.

Prilosec is not intended for the immediate relief of occasional heartburn symptoms. It may take 1 to 4 days for the medicine to fully work, although some people experience complete relief of symptoms within 24 hours.

When Prilosec is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking, including:

• Mavacamten.
• HIV infection medication that contains rilpivirine (Complera, Edurant, Odefsey, Juluca).
• St John's Wort.
• Blood thinning medications (warfarin, clopidogrel, cilostazol).
• Prescription antifungal or anti-yeast medicines.
• Diazepam.
• Immune system medications (tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil).
• Arthritis medication (methotrexate, especially high-dose treatment).
• Digoxin.
• Diuretic or "water pill".
• Antibiotics (amoxicillin, clarithromycin, rifampin).

Prilosec is available both over the counter (OTC) and by prescription. The OTC strength is 20 mg while the prescription strengths are 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg.

Keep this medication in its original container, tightly closed, out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature away from light, excess heat, and moisture (not in the bathroom).

Procter and Gamble is a pharmaceutical company that manufactures Prilosec.

Lower-cost generics are available for the brand-name Prilosec.

Talk to your provider to make sure stopping the medication is a safe option for you. Also, the use of other medications can smoothen the transition so a rebound reflux does not occur.

Studies suggest that Prilosec is not likely to cause serious birth defects or premature births if taken during pregnancy. However, talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

There is information available that shows that Prilosec passes into breast milk in tiny amounts, but your baby will not absorb a lot into their body. It is unlikely that it will cause any side effects in your baby. However, talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.