Prilosec

Prilosec is a drug used to lower the levels of acid content of the stomach. Learn more about this drug and how this can help improve your present medical condition.

The generic name for Prilosec is omeprazole. It is used to treat medical conditions characterized by excessive acid content inside the stomach. It is given by doctors as a symptomatic treatment for patients who are suffering from gastro-esophageal reflux disease – a medical condition that is characterized by the washing up of certain levels of acid into the part of the esophagus. In some cases, Prilosec is used in conjunction with drugs such as antibiotics to facilitate the absorption of the treating effects of Prilosec especially in cases where stomach infection is influenced by a bacterium called H pylori.

Another major treatment application of Prilosec is Zollinger-Ellison disease treatment. This medical condition is characterized by the excessive creation of acid in the stomach.

Prilosec is also effective when used as treatment for dyspepsia – a medical condition that results to heart burn, indigestion, belching and souring stomach.

When a patient is suffering from bleeding of the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract, Prilosec is also prescribed.

There are important things that you need to watch out before you take this medicine. That is why it is always best to consult a doctor first. If you have any allergic reaction to the contents of Prilosec, the doctor may reconsider your medication with Prilosec. In addition, the doctor should also know if you have any other allergic response to substances, foods, dyes, preservatives and certain drugs.

Pregnant patients may also be disqualified from taking Prevacid drug. Studies that were conducted about the effect of Prilosec to the unborn baby are not yet established. Even with this, you still need to discuss this with your doctor in order to save the well being of your baby.

For breast feeding patients who want to take Prilosec, the doctor may or may not allow you to take the medicine. The doctor should know the risks involved when taking Prilosec drugs while nursing a baby, so make sure you discuss this clearly with your doctor.

It is also best to inform your doctor with your present medication. Certain drugs interact with Prilosec ingredients. These drugs are warfarin, taacrolimus, Phenytoin, drugs for yeast or fungal infection, ketoconazole, itraconazole, itraconazole, iron salts, doxercalciferol, digoxin, disulfiram, ampicillin and diazepam.

Tell your doctor more about your medication including your intake with over the counter drugs, herbal medicines and nutritional supplements. The doctor also must know about your alcohol intake, cigarette smoking and use of illegal drugs.

Once you receive your prescription, always make it a point that you follow all the instructions given to you by your doctor regarding the use of Prilosec. Take your Prilosec capsule whole, do not cut, chew or squeeze the capsule. Follow up the intake with a full glass of water. You can open and spread the contents of the Prilosec capsule on your food like yogurt, fruit juice, applesauce or just plain water. Ask your doctor to be sure on the right kind of food to be taken along with Prilosec. Do not increase or decrease your dosage if not directed by your doctor.

Side effects of Prilosec can range from less common to more common. More common side effects are those do not necessarily need the doctor’s immediate attention. More common Prilosec side effects are diarrhea, constipation and headache. However if any these side effects become intolerable contact your doctor right away.

Less common but serious side effects of Prilosec are those that require immediate attention of the doctor. Some of these side effects are difficulty in urinating, skin rashes and bleeding.

To fully track the progress of your condition, visit your doctor regularly. Avoid missing out your Prilosec dosing. If this happens, call your doctor for you to guided on the proper thing to do.