Prilosec, or Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used for treating peptic ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome,GERD (acid reflux disease), LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux), and dyspepsia. Other trade names include Losec, Mopral, Antra, Omeparl, and Zegerid. Prilosec OTC and Zegerid OTC are other non-prescription names. It is available in some countries without a prescription and is widely used all over the globe.
Not everyone taking this medication will experience adverse symptoms or side effects, but for some people the following mild to severe symptoms may occur:
- Back pain
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Upper respiratory infections
Serious side effects of Prilosec include:
- Pancreas inflammation or symptoms of pancreatitis (fever, chills, abdominal pain, rapid heart rate, and nausea)
- Behavioral problems like agitation or aggression
- Agitation, confusion, or hallucinations
- Weakening of the bones that can result in broken bones
- Liver damage presenting as yellow skin or yellowing of the whites of the eyes, dark-colored urine, and stomach pain
- Allergic reactions like hives, rash, swelling primarily of the face, tongue, or throat and itching
Rare But Possible Side Effects:
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Decrease in appetite
- Weight gain
- Dry skin
- Hair loss
- Vertigo
- Drowsiness
- Tinnitus
- Blurry vision
- Anemia
- UTI (urinary tract infection)
- Muscle cramps
- Changes in taste
It is advised to report any of the above side effects to your doctor as well as any unusual changes. You should report any changes in mood or physiological changes to your doctor when taking proton pump inhibitors.
There are instances where this medication should not be taken or should be monitored by a doctor. Drug interactions can occur with some anti-depressants, antibiotics, and other medications. Your pharmacist can provide a complete list of known drug interactions. People with certain medical conditions like liver disease and allergies or women that are pregnant, considering becoming pregnant, or nursing should consult a physician before taking this or any other medication.
There is also the risk of overdose when taking this medication. The symptoms of overdose to watch for include blurry vision, dry mouth, nausea and/or vomiting, unexplained flushing and/or sweating, drowsiness, confusion and/or rapid heart beat.
Prilosec should only be taken as directed to prevent overdose or the possibility of serious side effects.
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