Can you take Prilosec OTC every day. What are the benefits of Prilosec OTC. How does Prilosec OTC differ from other heartburn medications. What are the potential side effects of Prilosec OTC.

Understanding Prilosec OTC: A Comprehensive Guide

Prilosec OTC, an over-the-counter medication containing omeprazole, has gained significant attention in the treatment of frequent heartburn. This article delves into the various aspects of Prilosec OTC, addressing common questions and providing valuable insights for those considering its use.

What is Prilosec OTC and How Does It Work?

Prilosec OTC is a medication designed to treat frequent heartburn, which occurs two or more days a week. But how exactly does it function?

Prilosec OTC works by inhibiting the production of stomach acid. This mechanism effectively reduces the likelihood of acid reflux, thereby alleviating the symptoms of heartburn. Unlike immediate-relief antacids, Prilosec OTC takes a preventative approach, making it suitable for those experiencing regular heartburn episodes.

Key Features of Prilosec OTC

• Contains omeprazole as the active ingredient
• Available without a prescription
• Delayed-release 20mg tablet formulation
• Taken once daily for up to 14 days

Daily Use of Prilosec OTC: Guidelines and Precautions

A common question among users is whether Prilosec OTC can be taken daily. The answer requires a nuanced understanding of the medication’s intended use and limitations.

Prilosec OTC is designed for a 14-day course of treatment. Users should take one tablet daily, preferably before eating. It’s crucial to note that this 14-day course should not be repeated more frequently than every four months without consulting a healthcare provider.

Important Considerations for Daily Use

1. Do not exceed the recommended dosage
2. Avoid crushing, breaking, or chewing the tablet
3. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen
4. Do not use for immediate relief of occasional heartburn

Prilosec OTC vs. Prescription Strength Prilosec

While both Prilosec OTC and prescription Prilosec contain omeprazole, they serve different purposes. How do these two formulations differ, and who should opt for each?

Prilosec OTC is specifically formulated for the treatment of frequent heartburn in adults. It contains 20mg of omeprazole and is suitable for over-the-counter use. On the other hand, prescription Prilosec is designed to treat more severe conditions such as esophagitis, ulcers, and other medical issues that require a doctor’s supervision.

When to Choose Prescription Prilosec Over OTC

• For treating conditions beyond frequent heartburn
• When longer treatment duration is necessary
• If higher doses of omeprazole are required
• In cases of severe or persistent symptoms

Comparing Prilosec OTC to Other Heartburn Medications

The market offers various options for heartburn relief. How does Prilosec OTC stack up against other over-the-counter heartburn treatments?

Unlike immediate-relief antacids or H2 blockers such as Pepcid, Zantac, Tagamet, and Axid, Prilosec OTC belongs to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs work by reducing acid production in the stomach, providing longer-lasting relief for frequent heartburn sufferers.

Key Differences

• Mechanism of action: Prilosec OTC inhibits acid production, while antacids neutralize existing acid
• Duration of effect: Prilosec OTC provides 24-hour relief, compared to the shorter-acting antacids
• Onset of action: Prilosec OTC may take 1-4 days for full effect, unlike immediate-relief options
• Treatment focus: Prilosec OTC targets frequent heartburn, while others may be suitable for occasional symptoms

Potential Side Effects and Interactions of Prilosec OTC

While Prilosec OTC is generally well-tolerated, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects and drug interactions. What should users watch out for when taking this medication?

Common side effects of Prilosec OTC may include headache, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and gas. These effects are usually mild and tend to resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Drug Interactions to Consider

Prilosec OTC may interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider if you’re taking any of the following:

• Warfarin (blood-thinning medicine)
• Prescription antifungal or anti-yeast medicines
• Diazepam (anxiety medicine)
• Digoxin (heart medicine)

Who Should Avoid Prilosec OTC?

While Prilosec OTC is suitable for many adults with frequent heartburn, certain individuals should avoid using this medication. Who falls into this category?

Prilosec OTC is not recommended for individuals who:

• Have only occasional heartburn (one episode a week or less)
• Seek immediate relief of heartburn symptoms
• Have had an allergic reaction to omeprazole in the past
• Experience trouble or pain when swallowing food
• Have symptoms of vomiting with blood
• Notice bloody or black stools

In these cases, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment options.

Long-term Use and Safety Considerations

As with any medication, long-term use of Prilosec OTC raises questions about safety and potential risks. What should users be aware of when considering extended use of this medication?

While Prilosec OTC is designed for short-term use (14 days), some individuals may require longer treatment under medical supervision. Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole has been associated with certain risks, including:

• Increased risk of bone fractures
• Potential vitamin B12 deficiency
• Increased risk of certain infections
• Possible interaction with other medications

It’s crucial to discuss any plans for extended use with a healthcare provider to weigh the benefits against potential risks.

Monitoring and Follow-up

For those using Prilosec OTC regularly or for extended periods, consider the following recommendations:

1. Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider
2. Report any new or worsening symptoms promptly
3. Discuss alternative treatment options if symptoms persist
4. Consider periodic breaks from the medication under medical guidance

Lifestyle Changes to Complement Prilosec OTC Treatment

While Prilosec OTC can effectively manage frequent heartburn, combining medication with lifestyle modifications can enhance its efficacy. What lifestyle changes can complement Prilosec OTC treatment?

Implementing the following lifestyle adjustments may help reduce the frequency and severity of heartburn episodes:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid trigger foods (e.g., spicy, fatty, or acidic foods)
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoid lying down immediately after eating
• Elevate the head of your bed
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques

By combining these lifestyle changes with appropriate use of Prilosec OTC, many individuals find significant improvement in their heartburn symptoms.

Understanding the Limitations of Prilosec OTC

While Prilosec OTC is an effective treatment for frequent heartburn, it’s important to recognize its limitations. What are some key points to keep in mind regarding this medication?

Prilosec OTC is not designed for:

• Immediate relief of heartburn symptoms
• Treatment of occasional heartburn (less than twice a week)
• Addressing underlying medical conditions causing heartburn
• Long-term use without medical supervision

Understanding these limitations can help users make informed decisions about their heartburn management strategy.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While Prilosec OTC can effectively manage frequent heartburn, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. These include:

• Severe chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent vomiting or vomiting blood
• Black, tarry stools

If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use of Prilosec OTC and consult a healthcare provider promptly.

The Future of Heartburn Treatment: Beyond Prilosec OTC

As medical research advances, new treatments and approaches to managing heartburn continue to emerge. What does the future hold for heartburn treatment beyond Prilosec OTC?

Ongoing research in gastroenterology is exploring several promising avenues:

• Development of more targeted proton pump inhibitors
• Investigation of alternative mechanisms to reduce acid production
• Exploration of the gut microbiome’s role in acid reflux
• Advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Integration of artificial intelligence in diagnosis and treatment planning

While Prilosec OTC remains a valuable tool in managing frequent heartburn, future developments may offer even more effective and personalized treatment options.

Staying Informed

To stay abreast of the latest developments in heartburn treatment:

1. Consult with your healthcare provider regularly
2. Follow reputable medical news sources
3. Consider participating in clinical trials if appropriate
4. Join support groups or forums for individuals with similar conditions

By staying informed and proactive, individuals can ensure they’re receiving the most appropriate and up-to-date treatment for their heartburn symptoms.

Questions and Answers on Prilosec OTC (omeprazole)

1. What is FDA announcing today?
2. What is Prilosec OTC used to treat?
3. How does Prilosec OTC work?
4. Will Prilosec OTC work as well as the prescription strength Prilosec?
5. How is Prilosec OTC taken?
6. If Prilosec OTC takes a few days to take effect, can I take more each day to make it work faster?
7. Who should take prescription strength Prilosec rather than Prilosec OTC?
8. Who should NOT take Prilosec OTC?
9. Does Prilosec OTC interact with food or other drugs?
10. How is Prilosec OTC different from the other OTC treatments for heartburn?
11. What are some possible side effects of Prilosec OTC?
12. How can I report a side effect with Prilosec OTC to the FDA?
13. When will Prilosec OTC be available?
14. What if I have other questions about Prilosec OTC?

1. What is FDA announcing today?

The FDA is announcing the approval of Prilosec OTC (omeprazole) as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug product. Until today, Prilosec was available only with a doctor’s prescription. FDA originally approved prescription Prilosec in 1989.

2. What is Prilosec OTC used to treat?

Prilosec OTC is used to treat frequent heartburn. Heartburn occurs when the stomach contents back up and out of the stomach into the esophagus (the tube that connects the throat to the stomach). Frequent heartburn is when you have heartburn 2 or more days a week.

Prilosec OTC is not the right medicine for you if you have occasional heartburn, one episode of heartburn a week or less, or if you want immediate relief of heartburn.

It is very important that you carefully read and understand the Prilosec OTC label directions, warnings, and side effects. Most importantly, the label will tell you when you should seek medical attention instead of taking Prilosec OTC.

3. How does Prilosec OTC work?

Prilosec OTC stops the stomach from making acid. This causes less heartburn.

4. Will Prilosec OTC work as well as the prescription strength Prilosec?

Both prescription Prilosec and Prilosec OTC contain the same active ingredient, omeprazole, which effectively stops acid production. Prescription Prilosec treats diseases that require diagnosis and supervision by a doctor. Prilosec OTC treats only symptoms of frequent heartburn. Used as directed, Prilosec OTC will not treat the conditions that prescription Prilosec treats.

5. How is Prilosec OTC taken?

Prilosec OTC is a delayed-release 20mg tablet, taken once a day (every 24 hours) for 14 days before eating. You should not take it for more than 14 days or repeat a 14-day course more often than every 4 months unless directed by a doctor.

Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet. This decreases how well Prilosec OTC works in the body.

6. If Prilosec OTC takes a few days to take effect, can I take more each day to make it work faster?

No. Prilosec OTC is not intended for immediate relief of occasional heartburn. Prilosec OTC may take 1 to 4 days for full effect, although some people get complete relief of symptoms within 24 hours.

Although the two products contain omeprazole, prescription Prilosec is for treating conditions such as inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis), ulcers, and other medical conditions for which a doctor’s supervision is needed.

For this reason, stop taking Prilosec OTC and tell your doctor if you:

• are not feeling better and your heartburn continues to worsen
• need to take this product for more than 14 days
• need to take more than 1 course of treatment every 4 months

7. Who should take prescription strength Prilosec rather than Prilosec OTC?

Prilosec OTC is not appropriate for adults who:

• have only occasional heartburn
• have one episode of heartburn a week or less
• want immediate relief of heartburn

8. Who should NOT take Prilosec OTC?

Do not take Prilosec OTC if you have:

• had an allergic reaction to Prilosec in the past
• trouble or pain swallowing food
• vomiting with blood
• bloody or black stools

9. Does Prilosec OTC interact with food or other drugs?

When you are taking Prilosec OTC, it is especially important that your health care provider know if you are taking any of the following:

• warfarin (blood-thinning medicine)
• prescription antifungal or anti-yeast medicines
• diazepam (anxiety medicine)
• digoxin (heart medicine)

10. How is Prilosec OTC different from the other OTC treatments for heartburn?

There are other OTC drug products used to provide immediate relief for heartburn. These include antacids and acid reducer drug products such as Pepcid, Zantac, Tagamet, and Axid. Prilosec OTC should not be confused with these products because it works differently and is not intended for immediate relief.

11. What are some possible side effects of Prilosec OTC?

Although side effects from Prilosec OTC are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• headache
• diarrhea
• constipation
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• stomach pain
• cough
• cold symptoms
• dizziness
• rash

12. How can I report a side effect with Prilosec OTC to the FDA?

You can report a side effect the following ways:

• Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch and click on “How to Report”
• Call 1 – 800-FDA-1088
• Fax 1 – 800-FDA-0178

13. When will Prilosec OTC be available?

The company marketing Prilosec OTC makes the decision on availability. For further information, please contact the manufacturer, Procter and Gamble, directly.

14. What if I have other questions about Prilosec OTC?

If you have further questions regarding Prilosec OTC or any medications, please contact the Center for Drug’s Division of Drug Information at: 888-INFOFDA (888-463-6332), or email us at: druginfo@fda. hhs.gov. 

Related Information

• Prilosec OTC (omeprazole) Information

Side Effects & Risks of Long-Term Use

Prilosec (omeprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor that treats severe stomach acid-related conditions like GERD. Common Prilosec side effects include headache, stomach pain and nausea. Long-term Prilosec use has been linked to kidney damage, bone fractures and other dangerous side effects. Unlike prescription Prilosec, Prilosec OTC is safe to treat frequent heartburn.

Prilosec (omeprazole) is the oldest proton pump inhibitor approved in the U.S. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Prilosec in 1989.

Prilosec is a powerful heartburn medicine. It suppresses the body’s ability to produce stomach acid.

Studies link Prilosec to serious side effects. Serious Prilosec side effects include increased risk of kidney failure and cancer.

What Is Prilosec?

Prilosec is a medicine designed to reduce stomach acid. If a person has too much stomach acid, it can flow into the esophagus. This can cause severe forms of heartburn and other medical problems.

Prilosec is part of the class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. It has an almost identical chemistry to Nexium (esomeprazole), another AstraZeneca PPI.

Other PPIs include Prevacid, Protonix and Zegerid.

What Does Prilosec Do?

Prilosec helps treat conditions caused by too much acid in the stomach. Prilosec shuts down tiny pumps in the stomach that produce acid. This reduces the amount of acid in the stomach.

Omeprazole relieves heartburn and other symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). People take Prilosec to help heal acid damage to the esophagus and stomach. Another Prilosec use is to help prevent ulcers and cancer of the esophagus.

Prilosec is approved to treat acid-related conditions including gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Prescription Prilosec Uses

The FDA approved prescription Prilosec in 1989. People use Prilosec to treat serious medical conditions related to stomach acid. Prescription Prilosec is not approved to treat simple heartburn. The best time of day to take Prilosec is before a meal.

The FDA Approved Prescription Prilosec to Treat:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• 
  Erosive esophagitis (EE)
• 
  Hypersecretory conditions
• 
  Helicobacter pylori
• 
  Active duodenal ulcer
• 
  Stomach ulcers

Prilosec OTC Uses

The FDA approved Prilosec OTC in 2003 to treat frequent heartburn safely and effectively. This is heartburn that happens two or more days a week. People should not use Prilosec OTC to treat less frequent heartburn.

Prilosec OTC is the over-the-counter version of Prilosec. It is probably the most familiar version of the medicine. Comedian Larry the Cable Guy popularized Prilosec OTC in direct-to-consumer ads.

Prilosec OTC is the over-the-counter version of Prilosec.

Some people prescribed proton pump inhibitors take Prilosec OTC to save money. Prilosec OTC has the same active ingredient as the prescription version, but it is cheaper. People should let their doctors know if they are taking Prilosec OTC.

The FDA warns about overusing Prilosec OTC. It says people should not take over-the-counter PPIs for more than 14 days. The FDA also warns against taking more than three 14 day courses in a year.

Overuse may lead to serious Prilosec side effects.

Side Effects of Prilosec (Omeprazole)

Risks for both prescription and OTC versions of Prilosec are the same. Studies link the most serious Prilosec side effects to long-term use.

In 2022, the FDA added warnings about Prilosec dangers to the drug’s label. These range from bone fractures to kidney dangers.

Less serious side effects may be more common than serious side effects in people taking Prilosec.

Common side effects of Prilosec (omeprazole) may include:

• Headache
• 
  Nausea
• 
  Vomiting
• 
  Dizziness
• 
  Stomach pain
• 
  Constipation
• 
  Diarrhea
• 
  Gas
• 
  Rash
• 
  Cough
• 
  Sore throat
• 
  Fever (in children)
• 
  Respiratory system symptoms (in children)

Serious Prilosec side effects are rare, but they can be life-threatening.

Serious side effects of Prilosec (omeprazole) may include:

• Kidney injury, damage or failure
• 
  Acute Interstitial Nephritis (AIN)
• 
  Bone fracture of the hip, wrist or spine
• 
  Vitamin B-12 deficiency
• 
  Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (caused by intestinal infection)
• 
  Lupus Erythematosus
• 
  Low magnesium levels

Prilosec Overdose Information

Prilosec overdose is possible. Early signs of a Prilosec overdose include passing out or trouble breathing.

Prilosec Overdose Symptoms

• Trouble breathing
• 
  Blurred vision
• 
  Confusion
• 
  Dry mouth
• 
  Flushing
• 
  Headache
• 
  Increased sweating
• 
  Passing out

People should seek immediate medical attention if they suspect an overdose. In the U.S., people should call 911 if they think someone is experiencing a Prilosec overdose. They can also call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Prilosec and Kidney Dangers

Several studies examine the safety of long-term PPI use. They link Prilosec and Prilosec OTC to serious kidney problems. Prilosec dangers include an increased risk of kidney disease and long-term kidney damage.

Prilosec and Kidneys Timeline

• 2017

  A study looked at 125,000 PPI users over five years. Researchers found kidney problems developed silently. Half who developed chronic kidney damage never had kidney problems before taking PPIs.

• 2016

  Researchers found long-term PPI use almost doubled the chance of kidney failure.

• 2015

  Canadian researchers reviewed medical records of 290,000 people. They found PPI users were more likely to suffer acute kidney injury.

Lawsuit Information

Proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec have been involved in over 12,000 lawsuits. Learn more about these cases.

View Lawsuits

Prilosec Lawsuits Claim Kidney Problems

Hundreds of lawsuits claim Prilosec can cause kidney damage. Prilosec lawsuits blame Prilosec and Prilosec OTC for several serious kidney problems.

In 2017, a federal panel combined PPI lawsuits into a multidistrict litigation (MDL). MDLs allow several similar lawsuits to move more quickly through the courts.

As of July 2019, there were 12.775 lawsuits pending in the MDL.

Prilosec (Omeprazole) and Prilosec OTC Lawsuit Injuries

• Acute interstitial nephritis
• 
  Chronic kidney disease
• 
  Kidney failure (end stage renal disease)
• 
  Kidney Injury

Other Prilosec Dangers

Researchers continue to find new Prilosec dangers almost 30 years after the drug won approval. Recent studies have linked PPIs to risks ranging from heart attacks to cancer. Prilosec can also cause problems for children. Women should consider risks before taking Prilosec during pregnancy.

Prilosec and Cancer Risks

Recent studies have found links between PPIs like Prilosec and cancer.

Esophageal Cancer

A 2018 study looked at medical records of 796,000 patients. They included every adult in Sweden given PPI therapy over seven years. Researchers concluded PPIs caused five percent of all esophageal cancer cases.

Gastric Cancer

In 2017, Researchers looked at PPI use after Helicobacter pylori treatment. They found long-term PPI use doubled the risk of gastric cancer.

Heart Attack and Stroke Risks with Prilosec

A 2016 study found Prilosec can increase a person’s risk of stroke. A 2015 study linked PPIs like Prilosec to increased heart attack risk.

Stroke

A 2016 study in Circulation found PPIs increased stroke risk by 21 percent on average. But risk varied by the type of PPI and the dose. Researchers found Prilosec in 40 mg or higher doses increased the risk by 40 percent.

Heart attacks

Researcher looked at 16 million medical documents for 2.9 million people. They found heart attack risks more than doubled among PPI users.

Prilosec and Liver Problems

People with existing liver problems should ask their doctor before taking Prilosec. The medicines can change how a person’s liver works. Their doctor may choose a lower dose. Or the doctor may want to consider Prilosec alternatives.

Prilosec and Asthma in Children

A 2018 study reinforced a link between PPI use during pregnancy and asthma in children. It reviewed eight population-based reviews. Women who took PPIs during pregnancy had children with a greater risk of asthma.

A 2017 study found similar results. Researchers reviewed medical records from 1.6 million patients. They found children born to mothers who took Prilosec or other PPIs were at greater asthma risk. The risk increased by a third for these children.

Prilosec and Childhood Bone Fractures

A 2017 study found higher bone fracture risks in children given Prilosec or other PPIs. Researchers reviewed 874,000 children’s medical records. They zeroed in on those children given PPIs before their first birthday. The researchers found those children had a 22 percent greater risk for fractures.

Prilosec Interactions

Prilosec may cause drug interactions with more than 160 different medicines. At least 29 of those drugs may result in serious reactions.

The FDA advises people to avoid Prilosec OTC with certain prescription medicines. The agency issued a public health advisory on Prilosec OTC in 2009. Drug interactions with Prilosec OTC can lead to medical problems.

Do Not Take Prilosec OTC With:

• Plavix (clopidogrel)
• Pletal (cilostazol)
• Methotrexate

Prilosec can also weaken the benefits from certain chemotherapy and HIV antiviral drugs. People should talk with their doctor about the drugs they are taking. They should also look at the full list of drug interactions on Prilosec’s label before taking it.

Prilosec Alternatives

People may want to ask their doctor about Prilosec alternatives. These may include other classes of drugs. People may be able to treat heartburn with antacids or h3 blockers.

8 Possible Prilosec Alternatives

• Zantac
• 
  Pepcid
• 
  Axid
• 
  Tagamet
• 
  Maalox
• 
  Alka-Seltzer
• 
  Pepto-Bismol
• 
  Tums

Diet and exercise changes may also work for other people. But PPIs may be the only option for some conditions.

People should never stop taking Prilosec without a doctor’s supervision. Stopping suddenly can cause other medical problems. People should work out a plan with their doctor to step-down slowly over several weeks.

Prilosec Facts

Please seek the advice of a medical professional before making health care decisions.

TELL US WHAT YOU THINK

Did You Find Drugwatch Helpful?

Yes

No

Thank you for your feedback.

Do you have any thoughts you’d like to share about Drugwatch.com?

This article changed my life!

This article was informative

I have a question

How can we improve this page?

This article contains incorrect information

This article doesn’t have the information I’m looking for

I have a question

How can we improve this page?

Thank You for Your Feedback

We appreciate your feedback. One of our content team members will be in touch with you soon.

We appreciate your feedback. One of our content team members will be in touch with you soon.

Instructions for use of Prilosec heartburn remedy (Prilosec)

General information

One tablet of Prilosec per day and you can forget about heartburn for the whole day and all night, the full course of treatment is 14 days.

Heartburn Remedy #1 in the USA. Heartburn Tablets Prilosec OTC Acid Reducer is strong enough to prevent heartburn before it starts. It is the only clinically proven remedy that blocks heartburn within 24 hours. In a recent survey on the effectiveness of Prilosec OTC Acid Reducer, the following results were recorded:

• 78% of consumers are free from heartburn after the first night;
• 81% of consumers felt significant relief after a day of use;
• 94% of consumers were satisfied with the excellent performance of Prilosec OTC Acid Reducer.

Prilosec OTC Acid Reducer for 14 days of treatment will relieve you of heartburn and heaviness in the stomach. Prilosec helps with heartburn!

Heartburn Tablets Prilosec is not intended for immediate relief of heartburn, this medicine takes effect 1 to 4 days after the start of use, although some patients notice relief of symptoms after 24 hours.

Composition

Active ingredients:

• omeprazole magnesium.

Inactive components:

• glyceryl monostiarate;
• hydroxypropyl cellulose;
• hypromellose;
• iron oxide;
• magnesium stearate;
• methacrylic acid copolymer;
• cellulose microcrystals;
• paraffin;
• polyethylene glycol 6000;
• polyorbate 80;
• polyvinylpyrrolidone;
• sodium stearyl fumarate;
• starch;
• sucrose;
• talc;
• titanium dioxide;
• triethyl citrate.

How to use

• Tablets should be used once a day (every 24 hours), every day for 14 days.
• It may take 1 to 4 days for full effect, although some people get complete relief from heartburn symptoms within 24 hours.

14-day treatment for heartburn with Prilosec:

• swallow 1 tablet with water in the morning before meals;
• use every day for 14 days;
• do not exceed one tablet per day;
• do not chew or crush tablets;
• do not take tablets with food;
• do not use tablets for more than 14 days.

Repeated 14-day heartburn treatment with Prilosec (if needed):

• You can repeat the 14-day heartburn treatment every 4 months.
• Do not take heartburn treatment for more than 14 days and more than once every 4 months unless advised by your doctor.

Warnings

1. Please read this leaflet carefully before starting treatment for heartburn with Prilosec.

2. Do not take Prilosec if you are allergic to omeprazole.

3. Do not use Prilosec tablets if you have:

• Pain when swallowing food.
• Vomiting blood.
• Bloody or black stools.
• If they can seriously impair your health. Talk to your doctor before using Prilosec.

4. Consult your physician before use if you have:

• heartburn for more than 3 months, this may be a sign of a more serious illness;
• with heartburn you sweat and feel dizzy;

• chest or shoulder pain with shortness of breath, sweat, pain extending to arms, neck or shoulders;
• frequent chest pain;
• frequent wheezing, especially with heartburn;
• severe weight loss;
• nausea;
• stomach pains.

5. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using Prilosec if you are also taking:

• warfarin
• prescription antifungal or anti-yeast medicines
• diazepam (diazepam)
• digoxin (digoxin)

6. Stop use and ask your healthcare professional if:

• heartburn continues and gets worse;
• You want to use Prilosec for more than 14 days;

• You must have more than one treatment every 4 months.

7. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult your healthcare professional before using Prilosec.

8. Keep out of reach of children.

9. In case of an overdose of Prilosec tablets, contact your doctor immediately.

10. Prilosec tablets are recommended for adults 18 years of age and older.

11. Children under 18 years of age – use Prilosec tablets on the recommendation of the attending physician.

12. Store Prilosec tablets at 20°-25°C.

13. Keep tablets away from high humidity and high temperatures.

You can find the catalog of products offered by the company “Medicine-Pro” in the “Products” section.

Nexium vs Prilosec: Differences, Similarities & What’s Best for You – Drug Vs. Friend

Home >> Drug Vs. Friend >> Nexium vs Prilosec: Differences, Similarities & What’s Best for You

Drug Vs. Friend

Drug Overview and Key Differences | Conditions of treatment | Efficiency | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug Interactions | Warnings | Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have heartburn? If so, you’re not alone – more than 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month, and many of those patients experience heartburn symptoms every day.

Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium) and Prilosec (omeprazole magnesium) are two drugs in a class called proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs. PPIs work by blocking and reducing acid production, thereby preventing heartburn and achieving acid control.

These drugs are FDA approved. They are used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and other gastrointestinal disorders. Although both Nexium and Prilosec are PPIs, they do have some differences which we will discuss below.

What are the main differences between Nexium and Prilosec?

Nexium (What is Nexium?) is known by the generic name esomeprazole and Prilosec (What is Prilosec?) is known by the generic name omeprazole. The common names sound similar for one reason: esomeprazole is a chemical isomer of omeprazole. Both drugs consist of the same chemicals, but are arranged differently.

Both Nexium and Prilosec are available as brand name and generic drugs, as well as prescription and over-the-counter drugs like Nexium OTC and Prilosec OTC. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the age and condition being treated.

90 273

Main differences between Nexium and Prilosec
	Nexium	Prilosec
Drug class	Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)	Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)
Brand/generic status	Brand and generic	Brand and generic
What is the common name?	Esomeprazole magnesium	Omeprazole magnesium
What form(s) does the drug come in?	Usage: Delayed release capsules, suspension, sachets, injections. OTC drugs: capsules, mini-capsules, tablets.	Prescription: delayed release capsules, suspension. OTC: delayed release tablets
What is the standard dosage?	Depends on indication: usually 20-40 mg once or twice daily (adult dose).	Depends on indication: usually 20-40 mg once or twice daily (adult dose).
How long does a typical treatment take?	10 days to 6 months, many patients need more time	10 days to 8 weeks, many patients need more time
Who usually takes this medicine?	Adults and children	Adults and children

Want the best price on Nexium?

Sign up for Nexium Price Alerts and be notified when the price changes!

Get Price Alerts

Conditions Treated by Nexium vs. Prilosec

Nexium and Prilosec are used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), to kill H. pylori to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence, and to treat pathological hypersecretory conditions .

Nexium is also indicated to reduce the risk of gastric ulcers associated with NSAIDs.

Prilosec is also indicated for the treatment of active duodenal ulcer or active benign gastric ulcer, treatment of erosive esophagitis (EE) due to acid-mediated GERD, and maintenance of healing of EE due to acid-mediated GERD.

9027 7 yes

Is Nexium or Prilosec more effective?

In a trial comparing standard doses of Nexium 40mg and Prilosec 20mg (together with other PPIs) in patients with symptomatic GERD, Nexium provided the most acidic control of any drug. In another study, patients treated with Nexium experienced faster symptom relief than patients treated with Prilosec and other PPIs. Although Nexium may be more effective, both drugs are quite popular among doctors.

The best medicine is the one that works best for you with the fewest side effects. Check with your healthcare provider who can help select the best drug for you based on your symptoms, medical condition, and other medicines you are taking that may interact with Nexium or Prilosec.

Want a better price on Prilosec?

Sign up for Prilosec price alerts and be notified when the price changes!

Get price alerts

Nexium and Prilosec coverage and cost comparison

Both Nexium and Prilosec are usually covered by insurance and Medicare Part D. The generic prescription version is usually covered. OTC versions are usually covered (by prescription) only with certain insurance. Co-pays vary by plan.

The price of 30 capsules of generic Nexium 40mg can exceed $300. You can pay less than $50 with a SingleCare card at participating pharmacies.

The cost of 30 capsules of generic Prilosec 20mg out of pocket averages $50 or more. With an omeprazole SingleCare coupon, the price starts at $15 depending on which pharmacy you use.

Get Prescription Coupon

General side effects of Nexium vs.

Prilosec

The most common side effects of Nexium are abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache and nausea. The most common side effects of Prilosec are headache, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Both drugs are usually well tolerated.

This is not a complete list of side effects. Check with your healthcare provider for a complete list of side effects.

	Nexium	Appliance
9 0005 Side effect	Applicable?	Frequency	Applicable?	Frequency
Abdominal pain	yes	3.8-5%	yes	5%
Constipation 90 280	yes	two%*	yes	two%
Diarrhea	yes	4.3%	yes	4%
Nausea	yes	4% *	yes	4%
Headache	yes	3. 8%	yes	7%
80
Flatulence	yes	3% *	yes	3%
Rash	yes		yes	two%

*Percentage not reported but occurs at the same rate as Prilo sec
Source: DailyMed (Nexium), DailyMed (Prilosets)

Nexium and Prilosec drug interactions

Since Nexium and Prilosec are similar drugs with a similar structure, they have similar drug interactions. PPIs should not be taken with antiretrovirals. Nexium or Prilosec may decrease atazanavir or nelfinavir levels so antiretrovirals do not work properly and the interaction may even cause drug resistance. On the other hand, taking saquinavir with a PPI has the opposite effect, increasing saquinavir levels, which can lead to toxicity.

Combining Nexium or Prilosec with digoxin may increase digoxin levels and lead to toxicity. Taking Nexium or Prilosec with warfarin can cause warfarin levels to rise, which can cause bleeding or even death. Nexium or Prilosec may interact with Plavix (clopidogrel), diazepam, cilostazol, and other drugs. This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Consult your healthcare professional for a complete list of drug interactions.

90 277 yes

Nexium and Prilosec Warnings

• Although a PPI may improve symptoms, it may still be malignant. Talk to your healthcare provider about the need for testing.
• Kidney problems can occur at any time. If kidney problems occur, PPIs should be discontinued.
• PPIs may increase the risk of diarrhea associated with Clostridium difficile. Patients should take the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time.
• PPIs may be associated with bone fractures (hip, wrist or spine). The risk is higher at higher doses, so patients should take the lowest dose of PPI for the shortest effective period.
• Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have been reported in patients taking PPIs.
• Long-term treatment (more than 3 years) may cause B-12 deficiency.
• Low magnesium levels (with or without symptoms) may occur. This is rare and usually occurs in patients who have taken PPIs for more than a year. Talk to your doctor about monitoring your magnesium levels.
• PPI use is associated with an increased risk of fundic gland polyps, and this risk increases with long-term use. Patients should take PPIs for as short a period of time as possible.

Frequently asked questions about Nexium and Prilosec

What is Nexium?

Nexium, or esomeprazole, is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat the symptoms of acid reflux and other gastrointestinal (GI) conditions.

What is a Prilosec?

Prilosec or omeprazole is a PPI used to treat the symptoms of acid reflux and other gastrointestinal conditions.

Are Nexium and Prilosec the same thing?

Nexium and Prilosec belong to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors and are very similar. In fact, they are chemical isomers of each other. Other PPIs you may have heard of include Acifex (rabeprazole), Protonix (pantoprazole), and Prevacid (lansoprazole). PPIs should not be confused with h3 blockers, another class of heartburn medications used for GERD, which include Pepcid (famotidine).

Nexium or Prilosec is better?

Both drugs are effective in the treatment of GERD and other gastrointestinal conditions. Some research (see above) suggests that Nexium may be more effective and work faster than Prilosec and other PPIs. However, both drugs remain very popular and well tolerated.

Can I use Nexium or Prilosec during pregnancy?

There is not enough information to generally say whether Nexium or Prilosec can be taken while pregnant. Check with your OB/GYN if it is safe to take Nexium or Prilosec if you are pregnant. If you are already taking one of these medicines and find out you are pregnant, check with your OB/GYN.

Can I use Nexium or Prilosec with alcohol?

The health information for Nexium and Prilosec does not specifically mention alcohol. However, alcohol can worsen the symptoms of GERD and other gastrointestinal conditions. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether you can drink alcohol if you have a medical condition.

What are the bad side effects of Nexium?

Nexium is generally well tolerated by most patients. The most common side effects of Nexium are headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Is it safe to take Nexium every day?

Nexium is taken every day (sometimes twice a day) and the duration of treatment varies from 10 days to six months. However, some patients take it for longer than six months as directed by their doctor.

Is Prilosec good for acid reflux?

Yes, Prilosec is a good option for acid reflux. In clinical studies, Prilosec has helped heal ulcers and improve symptoms.

What can I take instead of Nexium?

Other drugs in the same category of Nexium include Prilosec, Protonix , Prevacid and Aciphex. Check with your healthcare professional for advice if Nexium is not right for you.

In addition to taking a PPI or other medicine for your symptoms, you can change your diet. Some foods that can help reduce acidity are bananas, melons, whole grains, yogurt, lean protein, and green vegetables (asparagus, kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts).

Also try to avoid fried, fatty or spicy foods. Other irritating foods and drinks to avoid include pineapples, citrus fruits/juices, tomatoes/tomato products, garlic, onions, alcohol, sodas, coffee, tea, chocolate, and mint.