Omeprazole Product Information
Omeprazole 20mg is a medication used to treat acid reflux, which is a symptom of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).
The active ingredient in Omeprazole 20mg belongs to a class of medicines known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which inhibit an enzyme in the stomach lining to reduce stomach acid production.
This helps relieve acid reflux symptoms, including heartburn, chest discomfort, burning sensations in the throat, and difficulty swallowing.
Omeprazole inhibits an enzyme called hydrogen potassium ATPase, which is responsible for transporting hydrogen ions from the stomach lining into the stomach.
By blocking this enzyme, Omeprazole reduces the production of stomach acid, alleviating symptoms associated with excessive acidity, such as acid reflux.
Omeprazole is highly effective at providing relief from acid reflux and other symptoms of GORD, including heartburn, chest discomfort, and oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus)1.
According to studies:
- Patients taking Omeprazole have been found to be more than twice as likely to experience heartburn relief as those receiving a placebo2.
- Omeprazole 20mg provides fast and sustained relief from heartburn, in addition to treating other symptoms of GORD, including nausea and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)3.
It is advisable to take the medication consistently as prescribed and implement the lifestyle changes outlined in our guide to digestive health to maximise the efficacy of Omeprazole 20mg.
Please refer to the patient information leaflet for more guidance, and if symptoms persist, consult a pharmacist or GP.
It typically takes 2-3 days for Omeprazole 20mg to treat acid reflux. In severe cases, it can take an extended period for total relief from symptoms.
The effects of Omeprazole 20mg last for 24 to 72 hours, with normal stomach acid production restarting within 3-5 days.
Omeprazole should be taken in the morning, at least 30 minutes before breakfast. Taking it on an empty stomach ensures maximum absorption and effectiveness.
Omeprazole 20mg should be swallowed whole with water and should not be crushed, chewed or split before being taken.
Omeprazole should always be taken before meals for optimal absorption.
There are numerous ways to avoid acid reflux after completing treatment with Omeprazole 20mg, including:
- Avoiding trigger foods, such as spicy or fatty foods
- Staying upright immediately after eating
- Moderating the intake of caffeine
- Elevating the head while sleeping
If you miss a dose of Omeprazole, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time of your next scheduled dose (e.g. within 12 hours), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
If multiple doses are missed, consult a healthcare professional for advice.
It is recommended to take Omeprazole 20mg initially for 14 days, as this medication is designed to act as a short-term treatment for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).
Some individuals may need to take Omeprazole 20mg for more than 14 days, up to a maximum period of 28 days.
If symptoms persist beyond the 28-day period, discontinue taking Omeprazole 20mg and contact a pharmacist or GP for further advice.
Omeprazole FAQs
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a type of medication that reduces stomach acid production by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for acid secretion in the stomach lining.
PPIs are used to treat conditions such as acid reflux and GORD, providing longer-lasting relief compared to antacids or H2 blockers, as they reduce gastric acid levels over a sustained period.
Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, and Lansoprazole are acid reflux treatments containing three different types of proton pump inhibitors.
Each of these acid reflux treatments differs in chemical composition, but they are all equally effective at treating acid reflux.
The choice between them often depends on patient preference, pharmacist or GP recommendations, or specific health conditions.
Omeprazole and Gaviscon have different mechanisms of action:
- Omeprazole reduces stomach acid production to prevent acid reflux.
- Gaviscon forms a protective barrier on top of stomach contents to alleviate acid reflux symptoms such as heartburn.
Omeprazole is a better option for those who experience chronic acid reflux, as it addresses the root cause of the condition. In contrast, Gaviscon provides quick relief for occasional heartburn.
Some patients can benefit from using both treatments simultaneously, although this should only be done after consulting a pharmacist or doctor.
Omeprazole 20mg Overview
Like most medication, Omeprazole can have some side effects, although not everyone will experience them. The most common side effects include:
- headache
- diarrhoea
- stomach pain
- flatulence
- nausea
- vomiting
- constipation
Information Leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
Important: We advise you to always read the patient information leaflet inside the medication box, as the generic medication may not always entirely match the patient information leaflet listed. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Written and reviewed by our qualified team