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Omeprazole
Medication features
Omeprazole is a medication that reduces stomach acid, used to treat conditions like heartburn and acid reflux. It works by blocking a specific part of the cells in the stomach that produce acid.
- 10mg and 20mg Omeprazole available
- Effectively controls symptoms of reflux
- Up to 24hrs of relief
Overview
Omeprazole Over The Counter Online
You can buy Omeprazole for acid reflux from our UK registered online pharmacy and doctor service. No prescription is required, however, you will need to complete an online assessment, so our doctors can issue a prescription to our pharmacy. If the doctors approve your order, a prescription is passed to our pharmacy, which will then dispense and dispatch your medication.
About Omeprazole
Omeprazole is a drug that reduces the amount of acid the stomach makes. It is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Omeprazole can be used to treat a number of conditions. It is most often used to treat indigestion and heartburn/acid reflux.
Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, occurs when stomach acid travels up the gullet (oesophagus) to the throat. This can cause a burning sensation in the chest and leave an unpleasant taste in the back of the mouth. If acid reflux continues long term, it is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or GORD).
Indigestion, also called dyspepsia, is discomfort in the stomach that can cause you to feel bloated or sick. Acid reflux is also a symptom of indigestion.
Omeprazole is very commonly used to treat these conditions and is effective at improving symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.
Acid reflux can sometimes be caused by serious diseases. Please talk to your doctor or pharmacist if lifestyle changes or over the counter medicines do not improve symptoms, your symptoms persist longer than 5 days despite taking omeprazole, you have heartburn frequently for 3 weeks or more or if there are other symptoms, like food getting stuck in the throat, being sick often or unintended weight loss.
Your GP can run tests to rule out serious causes of acid reflux.
When filling out our online form make sure to list all of your symptoms, even if they do not seem linked to acid reflux.
Omeprazole can also be used for:
- Erosive esophagitis (stomach acid can damage the oesophagus long term)
- Zollinger Ellison syndrome
- Stomach ulcers
- H.Pylori stomach infections (omeprazole is taken for 7 or 14 days alongside antibiotics)
Certain factors can cause or worsen acid reflux and indigestion:
- Fatty, rich or spicy foods
- Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee or fizzy drinks
- Alcohol
- Being overweight
- Smoking
- Stress
- Certain medications, such as ibuprofen
Omeprazole Summary
| Dose | Take ONE capsule in the morning or as directed |
| Type of medicine | Proton pump inhibitor |
| Mechanism | Reduces the amount of stomach acid in the stomach, relieving acid reflux symptoms |
| Available Size | 28 to 56 capsules |
| Strength | 10mg & 20mg |
| Active Ingredient | Omeprazole |
| Price | From £8.94 |
| Side Effects | Can include stomach pain, nausea, headache, diarrhoea |
Prices
| 10mg x 28 Capsules | £8.94 |
| 10mg x 56 Capsules | £14.95 |
| 20mg x 28 Capsules | £10.95 |
| 20mg x 56 Capsules | £15.95 |
How Does Omeprazole Work?
The lining of the stomach contains proton pumps. These pump acid into the stomach to help digest food. Acid reflux is caused by this acid travelling from the stomach to the gullet and sometimes to the throat.
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor. This means it decreases the amount of acid produced by the proton pumps. This decreases the amount of acid in the stomach and improves indigestion and heartburn symptoms.
Omeprazole is very effective at reducing the amount of acid the stomach produces. This makes it an effective treatment for acid reflux.
Omeprazole capsules are delayed release to make sure the medication enters the bloodstream.
Omeprazole capsules are available in strengths of 10mg or 20mg. Our doctors can also prescribe orodispersible versions of omeprazole under the brand name Losec MUPS. It can also come as an oral suspension. These are useful if a patient has difficulty swallowing capsules.
Dosage
| Medication | Dosage |
Omeprazole 10mg and 20mg
| The most common dosage is ONE capsule first thing in the morning with a glass of water. Swallow the capsule whole to ensure the medicine absorbs properly. May be taken with or without food. If you expect to experience acid reflux from your breakfast, it is best to take the capsule 30 minutes before breakfast. If your GP has advised a twice-daily dosage, you may take ONE both morning and evening. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. If this happens, skip the missed dose and take the remaining capsules as normal. A double dose should not be taken. |
Omeprazole 20mg and Omeprazole 10mg
The usual starting dose is 10mg once daily. If this dose is not sufficiently controlling your symptoms, but you have seen some improvement, your doctor may consider increasing up to Omeprazole 20mg. If symptoms are still not controlled, your doctor may consider prescribing twice-daily doses.
Ideally, you use the lowest dose required to control the symptoms. This will minimise the side effects you may experience. Each person's dose is dependent on their condition and should be decided by a doctor.
Treatment Comparison
| Omeprazole / Losec | Ranitidine / Zantac | |
| Ingredient | Omeprazole 10 or 20mg | Ranitidine 150 or 300mg |
| Mechanism of Action | PPI - reduces acid in stomach | H2 Blocker - reduces acid in stomach |
| Common Side Effects | Diarrhoea, headache, nausea, and vomiting. | Diarrhoea, headache, nausea, and vomiting. |
| Dosage | One tablet up to twice daily as required | One tablet up to twice daily as required |
Interactions with Other Medication
When filling out our online form, make sure to list any medication you currently take.
Some drugs interact with omeprazole and may cause side effects or reduce how well one or both medications work.
Omeprazole may reduce the effectiveness of the blood thinner clopidogrel. Patients who take clopidogrel should be prescribed a different PPI such as lansoprazole.
Other medicines which may interact are listed below:
- Medications for HIV
- Methotrexate (used to treat autoimmune disease and cancer)
- Ketoconazole, itraconazole, rifampicin (used to treat infections)
- Digoxin (used to treat heart problems)
- Warfarin (used as a blood thinner)
- Other medication for heartburn such as antacids
Other Medical Conditions
When filling out our online form, make sure to mention any medical conditions that you have.
Omeprazole may not be safe for everyone, especially those who:
- Have had an allergic reaction to omeprazole or any other medicines in the past
- Have liver disease
- Are due to have an endoscopy
- Have B12 deficiency or magnesium deficiency
Omeprazole and Alcohol
While it is safe to drink alcohol with Omeprazole, it may worsen acid reflux symptoms and should be avoided if you find alcohol worsens your symptoms. Alcohol may also increase the dizziness experienced with Omeprazole. If this occurs, avoid alcohol.
Omeprazole in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Is Omeprazole safe in pregnancy? Omeprazole is considered reasonably safe in pregnancy however if possible, there should be an attempt to control symptoms with lifestyle changes first.
Is Omeprazole safe while Breastfeeding? There is very little evidence to show whether Omeprazole is safe in breastfeeding. For this reason, your doctor must consider the risk and benefits of the treatment before use.
For a full list of the warnings and precautions for omeprazole, read the patient information leaflet.
Side Effects
As with all medications, there are some side effects, although not everybody gets them. Some of the side effects of Omeprazole are stomach pain, headache, diarrhoea and nausea. Some of these may be caused by the acid reflux itself.
A full list of side effects can be seen in the patient information leaflet and it is always advised you read this prior to taking any medication.
If omeprazole is taken long term (over 1 year) it can increase the risk of certain side effects:
- Magnesium deficiency (can occur after 3 months of treatment)
- Bone fractures or joint pain
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Gut infections (increased risk of clostridium difficile)
Alternatives
There are several other prescription and non-prescription treatments for acid reflux. The other most common prescription treatments are other medicines in the same family (PPIs) Pantoprazole, Rabeprazole and Lansoprazole.
Over the counter treatments for acid reflux work by creating a barrier on top of the stomach to prevent acid reflux. These treatments include Rennie, Peptac, Gaviscon and Alka Seltzer.
Certain lifestyle changes can be used alongside omeprazole or other medications to improve symptoms:
- Avoid eating 3 hours before bedtime
- Eating smaller meals
- Losing weight if overweight
- Raising the head of the bed (so your chest is above the level of your waist)
FAQ
General Information
What is Omeprazole used for?
Omeprazole is used to treat acid reflux and other conditions caused by excess stomach acid.
How does Omeprazole work?
It works by inhibiting the proton pump in the stomach lining, thereby reducing the production of stomach acid.
Usage & Dosage
How often should I take Omeprazole?
Omeprazole is typically taken once daily, ideally before a meal.
How long should I take Omeprazole?
Without seeing a GP for a check‐up, Omeprazole should only be taken for 4–5 days to help control acid reflux. If your symptoms persist, it may be indicative of a more serious condition and you should see your GP for a full check‐up.
Can I take Omeprazole with Gaviscon or other heartburn medications?
Antacids like Gaviscon can be used with Omeprazole but should be taken at least 2 hours after Omeprazole. Apart from antacids, do not take other heartburn medications with Omeprazole without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Effectiveness & Results
How long does Omeprazole take to work?
While some people notice improvement after the first dose, it can take up to 4 weeks for the full effect to be seen. If symptoms have not improved after 5 days, speak to your doctor or GP.
Can Omeprazole completely cure acid reflux?
Omeprazole provides relief from symptoms by reducing stomach acid production, but it does not cure the underlying condition. Lifestyle modifications may also be necessary.
Side Effects & Safety
What are the common side effects of Omeprazole?
Common side effects may include headaches, nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhoea.
Are there any serious side effects?
Serious side effects are rare but may include severe allergic reactions, kidney issues, or vitamin B12 deficiency over long‐term use. Seek medical advice if you experience any concerning symptoms.
Is Omeprazole safe for long-term use?
It is generally safe when used as directed; however, long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare professional.
Storage & Travel
How should I store Omeprazole?
Store Omeprazole in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and always keep it in its original packaging.
Can I travel with Omeprazole?
Yes, you can travel with Omeprazole. Ensure you carry it in its original packaging and adhere to any travel regulations regarding medication.
Access & Cost
Can I buy Omeprazole over the counter?
No, Omeprazole is a prescription-only medicine in the UK.
How can I obtain Omeprazole online?
You can buy Omeprazole online in the UK via Simple Online Pharmacy. An online assessment is completed and a UK doctor will issue a prescription if you are eligible.
What should I do if my symptoms do not improve?
If your symptoms persist despite treatment, consult your doctor or GP, as this may indicate a more serious condition requiring further evaluation.
Compare
Treatment Comparison
| Omeprazole / Losec | Ranitidine / Zantac | |
| Ingredient | Omeprazole 10 or 20mg | Ranitidine 150 or 300mg |
| Mechanism of Action | PPI - reduces acid in stomach | H2 Blocker - reduces acid in stomach |
| Common Side Effects | Diarrhoea, headache, nausea, and vomiting. | Diarrhoea, headache, nausea, and vomiting. |
| Dosage | One tablet up to twice daily as required | One tablet up to twice daily as required |
Reviews
Info Leaflet
Before taking any medication, it is important to read the Patient Information Leaflet.
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