Product Details: Prilosec (Omeprazole)

PLEASE NOTE BRAND PRILOSEC IS ALSO MARKETED INTERNATIONALLY UNDER THE NAME LOSEC.

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: AstraZeneca

Generic Options

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

This medicine is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat ulcers, heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux, or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It works by blocking acid production in the stomach. This medicine may be used in combination with antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin, clarithromycin) to treat certain types of ulcers. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. SWALLOW WHOLE. DO NOT chew, crush, or open the capsule. If you have difficulty swallowing this medicine whole, the capsule may be opened and the contents sprinkled onto cool applesauce and taken as directed. Do not chew the food/medicine mixture or make-up a supply in advance. Doing so may destroy the drug and/or increase side effects. After taking the drug/applesauce mixture, drink a glass of cool water to ensure complete swallowing of the medicine. Take this medicine before a meal, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. This medicine may be taken with antacids if your doctor has instructed you to take antacids. Potent acid-reducing medicines such as omeprazole can decrease the effectiveness of sucralfate, as well as other drugs such as the antifungals ketoconazole and itraconazole. If instructed to take any of these medicines while taking omeprazole, consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the proper timing of each dose. For example, if you are instructed to take sucralfate in addition to omeprazole, it is best to take the omeprazole at least 30 minutes before your sucralfate. Use this medicine regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. CONTINUE TAKING THIS MEDICINE even if you feel better. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or use this medicine for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. DO NOT STOP USING THIS MEDICINE without first checking with your doctor. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are using this medicine. This medicine may cause dizziness. DO NOT DRIVE, OPERATE MACHINERY, OR DO ANYTHING ELSE THAT COULD BE DANGEROUS until you know how you react to this medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. CAUTION IS ADVISED WHEN USING THIS MEDICINE IN CHILDREN because they may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while using this medicine include headache, constipation, cough, dizziness, or back pain. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience unusual stomach pain. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience mental or mood changes (such as depression or agitation), chest pain, or fast or irregular heartbeat. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Omeprazole