Prilosec

Other Names: Omeprazole, Prilosec OTC, Zegerid.

Commonly Prescribed For: Prilosec can be used alone or combined with other medications for treating ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (backward flow of excess acid from stomach that leads to heartburn and injures esophagus), and erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the lining of esophagus). This medication can also be used for preventing ulcers, and bleeding from esophagus, stomach in patients with life-threatening illness. Nonprescription Prilosec can be used for treating frequent heartburn. It is commonly used with other medications.

How to Take it: Prilosec is available in the form of a delayed-release capsules to be taken via mouth. The delayed release capsules are normally taken once every day before taking meals or two times every day to eliminate H. pylori, when combined with other medications. The capsules are generally taken once every day in the dawn, an hour before taking meals on an empty stomach. Do not chew or crush the delayed-release tablets, instead swallow the tables entirely. Take Prilosec as prescribed, around the same time daily

How it Works: Prilosec belongs to a class of medications often referred to as proton-pump inhibitors. It works primarily to retard the quantity of acid generated from the stomach.

Some Side Effects: Common side effects include stomach pain, back pain, diarrhea, cough, and constipation. Some serious side effects include rash, burning of the lips, or feet, hives, muscle spasms, tightening, itching, seizures, and inflammation of the face, lips, hands, or lower legs, hoarseness and trouble breathing.