Prilosec is an oral medication that treats conditions caused by too much stomach acid. Stomach cells produce acid as part of the normal digestive process. Occasional excess acid causes heartburn. Constant excess acid can cause painful ulcers in the stomach and upper intestine, which can bleed and even hemorrhage. Excess acid can also result in gastroesophogeal reflux disease (GERD), the regurgitation of acid into the throat. GERD is not only uncomfortable, it also causes erosion in the throat and can lead to Barrett's epithelium, the growth of precancerous tissue.
Acid Reduction
Prilosec treats heartburn, peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and GERD by suppressing the stomach's production of acid. Over time, Prilosec reduces the amount of acid in the stomach, allowing damage to the digestive tract to heal and preventing further damage. Unlike antacids, which provide immediate, short-term relief for occasional indigestion, Prilosec is effective only when taken daily for weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition. Prilosec OTC is available without a prescription for self-treatment of short periods of heartburn. For more serious conditions, a doctor can prescribe higher doses.
Prilosec's Effect on Clopidogrel
The absorption or metabolism of other medications can be altered by changing the acid level of the stomach. The Food and Drug Administration warns against taking Prilosec while also taking clopidogrel, a medication prescribed for people at risk for heart attacks and stroke. Clopidogrel reduces the blood's clotting ability. If also taking Prilosec, people on clopidogrel may not get its full effect, putting themselves at risk for stroke or heart attacks.
Prilosec's Effect on Other Medications
Other medications may have an increased effect when digested in a low-acidity stomach. People taking medications that require very specific dosing, should take Prilosec only under a doctor's supervision. These medications include digoxin, diazepam, dilantin, warfarin, prescription-strength antifungal and anti-yeast medications and some medications to treat HIV.
Other Side Effects Are Rare
Every medication has some side effects, but Prilosec is typically well tolerated. The most common side effect of Prilosec, abdominal cramping, affects fewer than 1 percent of people taking the medication.
References
- "Pharmacology for Nursing Care"; Richard A. Lehne, PhD.; 2006
- Medscape Nurses: Treatment for Acid-Related Disorders
- "Clinical Therapeutics": The Proton Pump Inhibitors
- The Mayo Clinic: Omeprazole
