Side Effects Of Omeprazole

Omeprazole is available as a prescription and over-the-counter medication. It is sold as a tablet, capsule and powder. Omeprazole is also available as a delayed-release product. It is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease, heartburn, stomach ulcer, duodenal ulcer of the upper small intestine and other conditions, explains the "2010 Lipppincott's Nursing Drug Guide." Like all medications, omeprazole use is associated with the risk of side effects.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a common side effect of omeprazole treatment, according to Drugs.com. Similarly, the individual may experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or intestinal gas. Some people complain of a dry mouth or constipation while taking omeprazole.

Headache

Headache is a common side effect of omeprazole. Back pain and muscle cramps or aches are also possible, explains the National Center for Biotechnology Information. The hands, arms, feet or legs may tingle, burn or feel numb. The feet, ankles or hands may swell beyond their normal size.

Runny Nose

The individual may develop a runny nose, stuffy nose, cough or other symptoms similar to an upper respiratory tract infection. Less commonly, he may experience a fever or a nosebleed, relates the "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide." The fever may be accompanied by chills.

Anxiety

Some people taking omeprazole complain of new onset of anxiety. It is also possible to have difficulty getting to sleep or remaining asleep. The drug can cause abnormal dreaming and the individual to develop apathy, a condition in which the person feels indifferent to matters that merit concern.

Dizziness

Dizziness is a common side effect of omeprazole. The person may also have the sensation that the room is spinning. She may feel as though her muscles have lost strength. Seizure is a rare potential side effect.

Itching

An individual may develop an itchy rash while taking this product. He may break out in hives or have a skin inflammation. His skin may become dry and his scalp hair may fall out, relates the "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide."

Chest Pain

Chest pain and a change in heart rhythm are possible with the use of omeprazole, explains Drugs.com. The urine may become dark and the skin and whites of the eyes may become yellow. The individual may bruise or bleed with little or no injury.

Fractures

In May 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration informed users of omeprazole and similar products of the possible increased risk of fractures incurred by use of these drugs. Specifically, fractures of the wrist, spine and hip have been noted in some users, warranting this warning, explains the National Center for Biotechnology Information.