Prilosec, generic name omeprazole, belongs to a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors. According to the National Institutes of Health, Prilosec is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat and prevent stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers and heartburn due to gastroesophageal reflux disease. Prilosec is also used to treat Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a condition in which the stomach produces too much stomach acid. Prilosec may cause life-threatening side effects.
Hypersensitivity
According to Drugs.com, patients allergic to omeprazole and any ingredients in Prilosec may experience severe allergic reactions after taking it. Signs and symptoms of allergic reactions include difficulties breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, chest pain, rash, hives and swelling of the face, lips and tongue. Patients allergic to Prilosec and any of its ingredients should avoid the drug.
Musculoskeletal Effects
The U.S Food and Drug Administration website warns that long-term use of high doses of Prilosec and other proton pump inhibitors may cause fractures of the wrist, hip and spine. The risk of fractures is increased in patients above 50 years of age who have been taking Prilosec for a long time. The FDA recommends that doctors prescribe a lower dosage dose of Prilosec and for a shorter duration to prevent bone fractures.
Gastrointestinal Effects
According to Drugs.com, Prilosec may cause life-threatening effects such as esophageal candidiasis, liver damage, pancreatitis, irritable colon and growth of gastric fundic polyps. Esophageal candidiasis is the growth of fungus in the esophagus caused by suppression of stomach acid. Stomach acid kills fungus. Prilosec is metabolized in the liver, and continuous exposure of the liver to high doses of Prilosec may cause damage to liver cells. Gastric fundic polyps are cancerous polyps that may grow on the wall of the stomach due to long-term use of Prilosec. Patients experiencing these gastrointestinal symptoms should stop taking Prilosec and inform the physician.
