Omeprazole is a prescription medication that reduces the amount of acid that is produced in your stomach. This medication is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease, erosive esophagitis (damage to your esophagus caused by excess acid) and as part of the treatment for gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori, Drugs.com states. Omeprazole works by blocking certain cells in your stomach that produce acid. Although this medication may be effective in treating your symptoms, you should be aware of its possible side effects and what to do if you experience them.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Overall, side effects associated with omeprazole are rare. The most frequent side effects will affect your gastrointestinal tract. This occurs because your body has not yet adjusted to the lower levels of acid in your digestive tract. This can result in stomach pain, gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headache, according to Drugs.com. Avoid taking over-the-counter stomach relief medications because they may interfere with omeprazole. Instead, give your body a few days to adjust to the medication. Call your doctor f you have not noticed any improvement, or if side effects become worse.
Musculoskeletal Side Effects
Omeprazole may cause unwanted effects on your musculoskeletal system, according to the Mayo Clinic. These effects include back, leg or joint pain and muscle aches or cramps. These symptoms will likely improve with continued use of omeprazole. Ask your doctor before taking over-the-counter pain medications. You may apply ice or heat as necessary to the areas that are causing you the most discomfort. Be sure to continue exercising if you can tolerate it.
Skin Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic states that omeprazole may causes unwanted side effects to your skin. These effects include blisters, ulcers or sores in your mouth, redness, tenderness, itching, burning or peeling of skin, or a skin rash or itching. Call your doctor if you are having blisters, ulcers and sores in your mouth. You may apply non-medicated lotion to the areas that are giving you trouble, but avoid hydrocortisone or other medicated creams before talking with your doctor.
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