Prilosec

Generic Name:

• Omeprazole

Brand Names:

• Prilosec
• Losec
• Zegerid

Prilosec is available in prescription form and also over the counter as Prilosec OTC.

Why is Prilosec prescribed?

Prilosec is used to treat peptic ulcers, GERD, and erosive esophagitis.

Special precautions to follow when taking Prilosec

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Prilosec or any other drugs.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking omeprazole, call your doctor.

• Tell your doctor if you use tobacco products. Cigarette smoking may decrease the effectiveness of this drug.

• Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease.

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications or vitamins you are taking.

What if you forget a dose?

Consult your physician before taking a missed dose. Your doctor will be able to determine if it is safe to do so, or if you should wait until your next scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible side effects of Prilosec

Although side effects from Prilosec are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• headache
• diarrhea
• constipation
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• stomach pain
• cough
• cold symptoms
• dizziness
• mild rash

If you experience the following symptom, call your doctor immediately:

• severe skin rash with swelling and peeling

Storage conditions needed for Prilosec

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

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_{Sources: "Prilosec." NDA 19-810 07/05. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 11 Mar 2007 <http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/SAFETY/2006/Jan_PI/Prilosec_PI.pdf>}

"Questions and Answers on Prilosec OTC (omeprazole)." July 16, 2003. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 11 Mar 2007 <http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/infopage/prilosecOTC/prilosecotcQ&A.htm>