Prilosec also known as omeprazole, is a proton pump inhibitor that suppresses the production of acid in stomach by blocking the enzyme that produces stomach acid. According to the National Institutes of Health, Prilosec is used to treat heartburn, Gastroesophagealreflux disease, stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers and Zollinger Ellison Syndrome. Like any other drug Prilosec, has side effects.
Gastrointestinal Effect
According Drugs.com, Prilosec may cause abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation and flatulence. These side effects are not life threatening and they go away with continued treatment. Patients who experience severe abdominal pain should seek medical attention. Long-term use of Prilosec has been linked to inflammation of the pancreas, gastric fundic glands polyps and candida of the esophagus. The National Institutes of Health states that long term use of Prilosec may cause Clostridium Difficille infection in the gut. Lack of stomach acid to kill bacteria may cause Clostridium Difficille bacteria to invade the gut and cause severe diarrhea.
Musculoskeletal Effects
Drugs.com states that Prilosec may cause muscle pain, muscle cramping, back pain and joint paint. According to the National Institutes of Health, long-term use of Prilosec has been linked to increased bone fractures, especially in older women. Prilosec interferes with absorption of calcium in the body, leading to osteoporosis. Older women who take Prilosec every day are more likely to have increased fractures.
Hypersensitivity
According to Drugs.com, patients allergic to Prilosec may experience symptoms such as hives, problems breathing, itching, and swelling of the face and tongue and chest pains. Patients with known allergies to omeprazole products should avoid taking Prilosec.
Respiratory Effects
Drugs.com states that Prilosec may cause a persistent cough that is not life threatening. According to the National Institutes of Health, long term use of Prilosec may cause pneumonia and other breathing problems. Prilosec suppresses stomach acid that protects the body from infections by killing bacteria and viruses, which can lead to pneumonia and other infections.
