According to Drugs.com, Prilosec, whose generic name is omeprazole, is a proton pump inhibitor used to decrease the production of stomach acid. Prilosec is used to treat and prevent frequent heartburn, erosive esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Prilosec is available as a prescription and over the counter.
Mechanism of Action
According to Drugs.com, Prilosec inhibits hydrogen-potassium ATP enzyme system that is found on the walls of the stomach. The hydrogen-potassium ATP enzyme is responsible for the production of stomach acid. Prilosec blocks or reduces the activities of the hydrogen-potassium ATP enzyme, which leads to decreased production of stomach acid.
Contraindications
Drugs.com states that Prilosec should not be used in patients allergic to omeprazole. Prilosec should also not be used in patients with unexplained weight loss, undiagnosed stomach pain, bloody stool, coffee ground vomit or and heartburn with wheezing.
Side Effects
According to the National Institutes of Health, common side effects of Prilosec include headache, cough, back pain, stomach pain, constipation, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Adverse side effects include esophageal candidiasis, liver damage, pancreatitis and growth of fundal polyps in the walls of the stomach.
Directions of Use
Drugs.com states that Prilosec is available as a prescription delayed-release capsule and a nonprescription delayed-release tablet. Prilosec is usually taken once a day one hour before meals. The delayed-release capsules and tablets are designed to be released slowly in the body and therefore patients should not open, crush or break the drugs. Prilosec should not be used for the immediate relief of heartburn because it may take up to four days to work. Patients having problems swallowing may sprinkle Prilosec capsules on applesauce and swallow immediately.
Warning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration website warns that long-term use of high doses of Prilosec may cause fractures in the hip, wrist and spine. The risk of fractures is greater for patients above 50 years of age and who have been taking high doses of Prilosec for a year or more.
