Omeprazole is a prescription-only medicine known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which is used to treat acid reflux and indigestion. Omeprazole comes in tablet or liquid form.

Omeprazole is a kind of medicine known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Proton pumps are found in the lining of the stomach and make acid which digests food. Omeprazole prevents these proton pumps from working properly, which reduces the amount of acid the stomach makes. This reduces the risk of acid reflux and indigestion.

How long does it take for omeprazole to work?

Most people who get regular acid reflux start to feel better within 2-3 days of first taking omeprazole. This will differ from person to person, and it may take up to 4 weeks before all your symptoms disappear. If you take omeprazole for two weeks and notice no difference to your symptoms, book an appointment to see your GP. They may suggest an alternative medicine to take.

How effective is omeprazole?

Omeprazole is an effective medicine used to reduce acid levels in the stomach, and is often relied on to treat acid reflux, indigestion, and other stomach problems.

Swallow omeprazole tablets whole with a glass of water, with or without food. It’s usual to take omeprazole once a day, but for severe illness some people take it twice a day – once in the morning and once at night.

When should I take omeprazole?

Usually, omeprazole is taken once a day, first thing in the morning. It doesn’t upset the stomach, so it can be taken with or without food.

How long do I use omeprazole for?

Omeprazole tablets should only be taken for up to four weeks. Any longer, and you are at risk of having serious side effects.

How many omeprazole can I take?

You can take up to two omeprazole tablets a day, but this will depend on the dose you have been prescribed. If you have mild indigestion, you will likely only take 20mg a day.

Can I buy omeprazole online?

Yes, you can order omeprazole online through Superdrug Online Doctor. You will simply need to fill out a questionnaire, which is then reviewed by one of our doctors to make sure omeprazole is a suitable treatment for you. If your order is approved, your omeprazole will be sent directly to you, or to your local Superdrug Pharmacy for you to pick up.

Can I buy omeprazole over the counter?

Yes, a pharmacist may sell you omeprazole without a prescription. Here at Superdrug Online Doctor you can order online and if our doctors agree it is a suitable treatment for you, it can be sent directly to your door. You can also pick it up from your local Superdrug store if that works better for you.

Can I get omeprazole on the NHS?

Yes, you can get omeprazole on the NHS after you have been prescribed it by your doctor.

Omeprazole is a very common medicine, and many people who take it will not get any side effects. But, just like any medication, there will be some who do.

You are more likely to have serious side effects if you are taking a high dose of omeprazole or have been taking omeprazole for a longer period of time.

Common side effects include:

• dizziness and sleepiness
• headaches
• stomach pain
• constipation
• farting
• nausea

Uncommon side effects include:

• loss of appetite
• hair loss
• inflammation of the stomach
• taste changes

Rare side effects include:

• liver damage
• pancreatitis
• dermatological disorders

Why does omeprazole cause weight gain?

Weight gain has been linked to long-term use of omeprazole. The reasons for this link are unclear but they are thought to be due to increased food consumption because of a lack of acid reflux and indigestion.

Can omeprazole cause constipation?

Yes, omeprazole can cause constipation in some people.

What to do if you get side effects

Most people who take omeprazole do not get any side effects. If you do experience any of the common side effects, they usually go away when you stop taking omeprazole. If you get any serious side effects or notice that side effects continue even after you stop taking omeprazole, book an appointment to see your GP.

What are the side effects of long term use of omeprazole?

The longer you take omeprazole, the more you are at risk of developing serious side effects. If you take omeprazole for more than 3 months, the levels of magnesium in your blood may fall. Taking omeprazole for over a year increases your chances of bone fractures, gut infections, and Vitamin B12 deficiencies.

Omeprazole may not be right for everyone. Certain conditions or medications can interact with omeprazole, making it less effective or potentially unsafe.

Omeprazole is known to interact with:

• heart medicines like digoxin

• antifungal medicines like itraconazole and voriconazole

• methotrexate

• HIV medicines

• anti-epilepsy medicines like phenytoin

• antibiotics like rifampicin

• blood thinning medicines like clopidogrel and warfarin

Tell your doctor about any medication you are taking before starting your treatment with omeprazole.

Alternative acid reflux medicines include:

• Lansoprazole
• Esomeprazole
• Pantoprazole

Natural alternatives to omeprazole

If you have too much stomach acid, there are certain changes you can make to your lifestyle and diet which may help, without the need of taking medicine. These include:

• maintaining a healthy weight
• avoiding foods that make symptoms worse (like spicy and fatty foods)
• avoiding caffeinated drinks (like tea and coffee)
• stopping smoking
• avoiding eating at least 3 hours before going to sleep