Omeprazole is a medication used to treat stomach acid-related conditions, and belongs to the group of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) which help to reduce the production of stomach acid, providing relief from digestive discomfort.
It is commonly prescribed for the following gastrointestinal conditions:
- Heartburn: Omeprazole helps reduce stomach acid, providing relief from the burning sensation and discomfort associated with heartburn
- Indigestion: By inhibiting acid production, omeprazole can alleviate the feeling of fullness, bloating, and general discomfort caused by indigestion
- Acid Reflux: Omeprazole is effective in managing acid reflux symptoms, including regurgitation of stomach acid into the throat, sour taste, and chest pain
- Stomach Ulcers: Omeprazole aids in the healing and prevention of stomach ulcers by reducing stomach acid, allowing the ulcer to heal without irritation
How Long Does Omeprazole Take to Work?
Omeprazole typically begins to take effect within 2 to 3 days of starting the treatment, providing some relief from gastrointestinal symptoms.
However, it may take up to 4 weeks of continuous use for omeprazole to fully alleviate the specific condition it’s prescribed for.
It’s crucial to be patient and consistent with the medication, following the prescribed dosage and duration to experience its maximum benefits in effectively managing your condition.
Common Side Effects - more than 1 in 100 people
The common side effects of omeprazole are usually temporary and tend to subside with continued use. However, if any of these symptoms persist or become bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance.
These include:
- Headaches
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
Serious Side Effects - call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk now
While rare, it’s vital to be aware of certain significant side effects when taking omeprazole.
If you experience any of these uncommon symptoms while using omeprazole, call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk now:
- Yellowing of the skin, darker urine, and increased fatigue may indicate liver problems
- Joint pain with a red skin rash, especially on sun-exposed areas, could suggest a rare condition called subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, even with long-term use
- Severe or persistent diarrhoea might be a sign of an inflamed bowel
Always prioritise your health and well-being, and don’t hesitate to consult your doctor for any concerns during omeprazole treatment.
For further information on the side effects of Omeprazole, please visit the official NHS website by clicking here.
Order Your Omeprazole Prescription with Healthera
If you’ve been prescribed omeprazole by your GP, you can place your order from the comfort of your home by using the Healthera app.
It only takes a couple of minutes to set up your order for collection or home delivery from your local pharmacy.
To get started, simply click the button below:
