Omeprazole, marketed under the brand name Prilosec, treats medical conditions associated with the stomach producing too much acid, such as gastric ulcers, erosive esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The oral medication works best in conjunction with diet and lifestyle changes that help reduce acid production. Omeprazole works to decrease the volume of acid produced by the stomach, but it is not used as a remedy for acute heartburn. An additional use of omeprazole is to help heal the esophagus after acid damage. The common prescribed dosage amount is 20mg. The dosing duration depends on the condition treated. Like all medications, omeprazole may cause unwanted side effects.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects from taking omeprazole include diarrhea, headache and stomach pain. Constipation, dizziness and back pain may also occur while taking this medication. These side effects will generally decrease with continued use of the medicine.
Severe Side Effects
Severe side effects that may occur while using omeprazole signify a severe reaction or allergy to the medicine. Symptoms include hives, an itchy skin rash, swelling or the airway, blueness around the face or mouth and difficulty breathing. The voice may become hoarse, and muscle spasms can occur. Burning of the mouth, lips, hands and feet are also possible.
Rare Side Effects
Rare side effects associated with taking omeprazole, according to the Mayo Clinic, include unusual or increased bleeding, apparent as bruising or bloody urine. Joint pain, a loss of appetite, skin blistering, ulcers in the mouth and a sore throat may occur. Others may experience an overall feeling of illness.
Overdose
If an overdose of omeprazole occurs, common symptoms include feelings of sleepiness and gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea and vomiting. Additional symptoms include blurred vision, dry mouth, increased heart rate, increased perspiration, confusion and headaches.
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