Zegerid is a combination medication consisting of omeprazole and sodium bicarbonate. Omeprazole, according to Drugs.com, reduces the production of acid in the stomach. Sodium bicarbonate is an antacid that alters the pH levels in the stomach to prevent omeprazole from breaking down in stomach acid. The two chemicals are used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions caused by stomach acid production. As with any medication, Zegerid has the risk of side effects.
Drug Interactions
Drugs.com explains that Zegerid can alter the way the body absorbs or metabolizes other drugs. This can include prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Inform your doctor of any medications you are consuming to reduce the risk of interaction.
Contraindications
Individuals who are prescribed a low-sodium diet may not be able to use Zegerid. The sodium bicarbonate in the capsule is equal to 300mg of sodium, according to Drugs.com. Individuals who have low calcium or low potassium levels in the blood may not be advised to use Zegerid either because of the sodium bicarbonate. According to Drugs.com, the FDA has attributed a pregnancy category C rating for Zegerid, which means the medication can be harmful to an unborn child.
Less Serious Side Effects
Mild side effects are possible with the use of Zegerid. Drugs.com suggests reporting them to your doctor if they become persistent or overly bothersome. Such effects include headache, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, white lesions in the mouth or on the lips and/or a low fever. RxList.com indicates that effects such as back pain, coughing and gastrointestinal side effects occur between 1.1 and and 3.0 percent of the time. A headache is the most common mild side effect, occurring in greater than 5 percent of cases.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects should be reported to a doctor immediately, and in some cases emergency medical treatment is necessary. Such hazards of Zegerid, as indicated by Drugs.com, include bruising easily, bleeding easily, unusual weakness, rapid heart rate, slowed heart rate or an uneven heartbeat. Signs of an allergic reaction can include hives, oral swelling, facial swelling, trouble breathing or closing of the throat.
Member Comments