What Is Omeprazole?

Omeprazole is a medication used to treat stomach and esophagus conditions. Known as a proton pump inhibitor, omeprazole is sold over-the-counter and in stronger doses with a prescription. It is available as an oral tablet and liquid suspension, and medical personnel might administer it as an injection for certain patients. The dose is determined by the severity of the patient's stomach or esophageal issues and by the patient's other medical conditions. As an oral tablet, omeprazole is available in strengths of ten, twenty, and forty milligrams. Individuals of Asian descent often need a lower dose of this medicine than other patients, particularly in cases where omeprazole is being used to treat erosive esophagitis.

The major uses, side effects, and drug interactions associated with omeprazole are discussed below.

How It Works

As a proton pump inhibitor, omeprazole works by suppressing the secretion of stomach acid. It blocks the action of the proton pump, an enzyme system located on the surface of the gastric parietal cells. Omeprazole blocks the last step in the process of stomach acid production, and it starts to work within one hour after it is taken by mouth. The full effect of the medicine is normally felt within two hours, and omeprazole can continue to inhibit stomach acid secretion for up to three days after a single dose. Once omeprazole is discontinued, the patient's stomach acid levels will return to their baseline after three to five days.

Keep reading to learn about the uses for omeprazole next.