Omeprazole is widely used proton pump
inhibitor for treating various types of gastrointestinal ulcers, dyspepsia
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD/GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
The drug is one of the most widely prescribed all over the globe and is also
available over the counter in some countries.
It is a gastric proton pump inhibitor. Omeprazole is a substituted
benzimidazole derivative acting on the final step of acid production &
therefore controls intragastric acidity irrespective of stimulus. It
markedly inhibits basal and stimulated gastric acid secretion. Thus it is
antisecretory drug which is very effective for rapidly healing peptic ulcers
& erosive oesophagitis & for reducing gastric acid hyper-secretion
in patients with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Brand Name: Prilosec, losec
Iupac Name:
5-methoxy-2-[(4-methoxy-3,5-dimethyl-pyridin-2-yl)methylsulfinyl]-3H-benzimidazole
Working
The drug acts by relaxing blood vessels so that blood passes through them
more easily. This further helps to lower blood pressure.
Dosage
Gastric ulcer: 20 mg once daily for 8 weeks in sever cases increase
to0 40 mg once daily
Duodenal ulcer: 20 mg once daily for 4 weeks.
Zollinger Ellison Syndrome: 60 mg once daily.
Maintenance therapy: 20 0120 mg adjusted to response.
Contra- Indications: Hypersensitivity, neonates
Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in different
ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are often associated
with the drug:
- Skin rash
- Nausea
- Headache
- Constipation
- Flatulence
The drug's safety has not been established for use by pregnant and
lactating women
Disclaimer: The above information is for general understanding
of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical practitioner before
taking the aforesaid medicine.