Prilosec OTC Oral is a medication used to treat heartburn, acid indigestion, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
It belongs to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which work by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach. In this article, we will discuss the uses, side effects, and interactions of Prilosec OTC Oral.
Uses of Prilosec OTC Oral
Prilosec OTC Oral is primarily used to treat heartburn and acid indigestion, which are common symptoms of GERD. GERD is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort.
Prilosec OTC Oral helps to reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach, thus reducing the frequency and severity of these symptoms.
Prilosec OTC Oral can also be used to treat other conditions related to excess stomach acids, such as stomach and duodenal ulcers.
Dosage of Prilosec OTC Oral
The recommended dosage of Prilosec OTC Oral for adults is one 20mg tablet taken once a day for up to 14 days.
It is important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If symptoms persist after 14 days, patients should consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Prilosec OTC Oral can cause side effects. The most common side effects of Prilosec OTC Oral include:
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Vomiting
Less common but more severe side effects may include:
- Severe allergic reaction
- Severe stomach pain
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Blood in stool
Patients should contact their doctor immediately if they experience any severe side effects.
Precautions and Interactions
Before taking Prilosec OTC Oral, patients should inform their doctor of any medical conditions they may have, especially if they have liver disease. Patients should also inform their doctor of any medications they are taking, including vitamins and supplements, as some medications may interact with Prilosec OTC Oral.
Prilosec OTC Oral should not be taken by patients who are allergic to any of its ingredients, or who have had an allergic reaction to other PPIs.
Conclusion
Prilosec OTC Oral is a medication used to treat heartburn, acid indigestion, and GERD. It works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
The recommended dosage is one 20mg tablet taken once a day for up to 14 days. Common side effects include headache, stomach pain, and nausea, while less common but more severe side effects may include severe allergic reactions and chest pain.
Patients should inform their doctor of any medical conditions or medications they are taking before starting Prilosec OTC Oral.
