Prilosec is a medication that belongs to a category of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors. These medications are designed to decrease the amount of acid the stomach produces to reduce the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. The drug is also used to help heal damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid. However, while Prilosec is used to reduce stomach acid, it is not indicated for the immediate relief of heartburn.
Allergic Reaction
According to Drugs.com, Prilosec may cause allergic reactions such as hives, itching, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin, and unusual bruising or bleeding. These side effects require immediate medical attention.
Gastrointestinal
According to RxList, Prilosec can cause gastrointestinal side effects that include an inflamed pancreas, anorexia, irritable colon, fecal discoloration, dry mouth, abdominal swelling and stomatitis, or inflammation in the mouth. Small cancerous growths in the gastroduodenal area of the intestines have been reported in people who suffer from Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome and have been on long-term treatment with Prilosec. Individuals may also experience liver disease, jaundice, and liver tissue death.
Psychiatric
According to RxList, psychiatric side effects can include sleep disturbances, depression, agitation, aggression, confusion, nervousness, apathy, hallucination, insomnia, anxiety, dream abnormalities, tremors, vertigo and sleepiness.
Skin
According to MayoClinic.com, skin side effects of Prilosec include bleeding or crusting sores on the lips, blisters, ulcers or sores in the mouth, redness, tenderness, itching, burning or peeling skin, skin rash or itching, and unusual bleeding or bruising. Many of these side effects are less common and should be reported to the primary care physician as soon as they appear.
Urinary Tract
MayoClinic.com also reports urinary tract side effects from the administration of Prilosec. These side effects include bloody or cloudy urine, difficult, burning or painful urination, and a frequent urge to urinate. Individuals may also experience sores, ulcers or white spots on the genitals. Urinary tract side effects will disappear when the medication is withdrawn.
