What is omeprazole?
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and is one of the most prescribed medicines worldwide. It inhibits gastric acid production and is used in sodburns, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastric and twelve-fingered intestinal ulcers and as gastric protection for certain drugs.
Omeprazole is available under the brand name Antra MUPS® and as numerous generic drugs. In low dosages (20 mg) it is also available without prescription, higher dosages and long-term use are subject to prescription.
The effect does not immediately apply – full acid inhibition is achieved after 2-5 days.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Omeprazol
Omeprazole irreversibly inhibits the proton pump (H+/K+-ATPase) in the test cells of the stomach:
Active mechanism:
- Omeprazole is a prodrug – it is only activated in the acid medium of the document cell
- irreversibly connects to the proton pump
- Blocks the last step of gastric acid production
- Reduces stomach acid by up to 90%
Initiation of action:
- First improvement within 1-2 hours
- Full effect after 2-5 days of regular intake
- New proton pumps have to be formed again
Activity: After deposition, acid production is normalized within 3-5 days, as new proton pumps are replicated.
Who is it suitable for?
Omeprazole is suitable for:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Sodburning and acidic impact
- Refluxesophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)
- Gastrointestinal ulcers
- Eradication therapy at Helicobacter pylori (in combination with antibiotics)
- Gastric protection at NSAID intake (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac)
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
**Not suitable as permanent solution for:* *
- Occasional heartburn (Antazida can be sufficient)
- Unclear superstructure problems without diagnostics
Available Dosages
Available starches:
- 10 mg (free of prescription)
- 20 mg (free of prescription)
- 40 mg (prescribed)
Other dosages:
- Sodburning/light reflux: 20 mg 1x daily
- Refluxesophagitis: 20-40 mg 1x daily for 4-8 weeks
- Gastric ulcer: 20 mg 1x daily for 4-8 weeks
- Gastric protection at NSAID: 20 mg 1x per day
- Helicobacter-Eradication: 20 mg 2x daily (7-14 days, with antibiotics)
How to Take
Intake:
- Morning, 30 minutes before breakfast
- Swallow capsule/tablet with water
- MUPS tablets can be dissolved in water
Important notes:
- Regularly take, not only in case of complaints
- Do not drop abruptly after long-term therapy (rebound effect possible)
- Long-term use (>8 weeks) only under medical control
- Regular check of the need for therapy
Contraindications
**Omeprazole must not be taken at:* *
- hypersensitivity to omeprazole or other PPIs
- At the same time taking Nelfinavir (HIV medication)
Preview at:
- liver failure (dose adjustment, max. 20 mg
- Long-term application (refer to risks)
- Suspicion of stomach cancer (Symptome can be masked!)
Pregnant period: Omeprazole can be used in pregnancy if the benefit is outweighed. It is converted into breast milk in small amounts.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Headaches
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- Blocking
- nausea
- Blowing
Occasionally:
- Squeeze
- Sleep disorders
- Skin rash
For long-term use (>1 year):
- Increased risk of bone fractures (height, wrist)
- Magnesium deficiency
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Possibly increased risk for Clostridium difficile infections
- Possibly increased risk of kidney disease
Rebound effect: After deposition, gastric acid can be produced temporarily. Slip recommended.
Interactions
Contracted:
- Nelfinavir (HIV) – loss of effect
Sustainability of:
- Clopidogrel (Plavix®) – Omeprazol inhibits CYP2C19 and can impair the activation of Clopidogrel. Alternative: Pantoprazole
Changed absorption by pH change:
- Ketoconazole, Itraconazole – reduced absorption
- Iron preparations – reduced intake
- Vitamin B12 – reduced intake for long-term use
**Omeprazole inhibits CYP2C19: * *
- Diazepam – slowed down
- Phenytoin – increased levels possible
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is omeprazole right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.