Omeprazole is a medicine which is known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Proton pumps release acid into the stomach to aid digestion, and PPIs work by reducing the amount of acid that is produced by these proton pumps. It is used to treat symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease such as indigestion, acid reflux and heartburn, and can also be used to treat ulcers in the stomach or intestine. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as naproxen, can damage the stomach lining and cause ulcers, so omeprazole may be prescribed alongside these to help protect the stomach. Omeprazole is also used in combination with antibiotic therapy to treat infections caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori.
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
Possible side effects include:
- Headache, dizziness
- Feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, stomach pains, constipation, wind
- Benign polyps in the stomach
- Tiredness
If you experience these or any other side effects while taking this medicine seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any of the ingredients listed.
Please read the patient information leaflet before using this medicine.
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