Prilosec  - Generic Name: Omeprazole

Omeprazole tablets

What are omeprazole tablets?

OMEPRAZOLE (Prilosec OTC™) prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It helps to treat the symptoms of heartburn, the feeling of acid burning in your stomach or throat. You can buy omeprazole tablets without a prescription; however this product is not for long-term use, unless otherwise directed by your health care provider. Generic omeprazole tablets are not yet available.

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

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• black or bloody stools
• chest pain
• difficulty swallowing
• have had heartburn for over 3 months
• have heartburn with dizziness, lightheadedness or sweating
• liver disease
• stomach pain
• unexplained weight loss
• vomiting with blood
• wheezing
• an unusual or allergic reaction to omeprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take omeprazole tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the product label. Take one tablet every day for 14 days in a row; do not skip any doses. Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water; do not crush, break or chew. Omeprazole works best if taken on an empty stomach. It is best to take the tablet 30 minutes before breakfast. Take your dose at regular intervals every 24 hours. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not take this product for heartburn for more than 2 weeks out of every 4 months. If your symptoms continue, visit your health care provider; you may need additional care or different treatments.

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

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 drug(s) may interact with omeprazole tablets?

• ampicillin
• diazepam
• digoxin
• disulfiram
• doxercalciferol
• iron salts
• itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole or other prescription medicines for fungus or yeast infections
• phenytoin
• tacrolimus
• 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.

What side effects may I notice from taking omeprazole tablets?

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

• 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

What should I watch for while taking omeprazole?

It can take several days of therapy with omeprazole before your heartburn improves. Check with your prescriber or health care professional if your condition does not improve, or if it gets worse.

Do not treat yourself for heartburn with non-prescription omeprazole for more than 14 days in a row. You should only self-medicate with omeprazole for a 2-week treatment period once every 4 months. If your symptoms return shortly after your therapy is complete, or within the 4 month time frame, seek the advice of your health care professional.

Where can I keep my medicine?

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. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.