IMPORTANT NOTE:
The following information is intended to supplement,
not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician,
pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not
be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate,
or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional
before using this drug.
USES: Omeprazole is used
to treat various acid-related stomach and/or throat (esophagus)
problems (e.g., GERD, ulcers, erosive esophagitis, or Zollinger-Ellison
Syndrome). It works by blocking the production of acid in
the stomach. When using this medication to treat certain ulcers,
it may be prescribed along with certain antibiotics (e.g.,
amoxicillin, clarithromycin).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication
by mouth, usually once daily, 15 to 30 minutes before a meal;
or as directed by your doctor. The dosage and length of treatment
is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.
Do not crush or chew the medication. Swallow the medication
whole. If you take sucralfate in addition to this medication,
take your dose of omeprazole at least 30 minutes before your
sucralfate.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, diarrhea,
gas, or constipation, may occur. If any of these effects persist
or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately
if any of these serious side effects occur: rash, stomach/abdominal
pain, back pain, unusual tiredness, dizziness, vomiting. Tell
your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious
side effects occur: chest pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes
or skin. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but
seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of
an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, trouble
breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact
your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor
your medical history, especially of: liver problems, other
stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies. This medication
should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not
known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of
the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using
this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your
doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication
you may use, especially: diazepam, "blood thinners"
(e.g., warfarin), hydantoins (e.g., phenytoin), azole antifungals
(e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), ampicillin, iron supplements,
sucralfate, cilostazol. Do not start or stop any medicine
without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is
suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency
room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: confusion,
unusual sweating, blurred vision, unusually fast heartbeat,
seizures.
NOTES: Do not share this
medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may
be performed to monitor your progress.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss
a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the
time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your
usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature
between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from
light and moisture.
