Omeprazole reduces the amount of acid produced in your stomach. It belongs to a group of medicines known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
- Omeprazole is used to treat conditions associated with high levels of stomach acid, such as indigestion, reflux and ulcers. It can prevent ulcers from forming or help the healing process where damage has already occurred.
- Omeprazole can be used to prevent ulcers caused by medicines such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Examples of NSAIDs are diclofenac, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
- It can also be given together with certain antibiotics to get rid of Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria found in your stomach that can cause ulcers.
- For information on omeprazole in children, see omeprazole information for parents and carers.(external link)
In Aotearoa New Zealand omeprazole is available as capsules, tablets, liquid suspension and an injection (usually used in hospital).
October 2024 update: The Teva brand of omeprazole capsules will look different from October. This only affects the 20 mg and 40 mg capsules from October. The 10 mg capsules will change over in Feb 2025. The bottle and label will also look slightly different. The company that makes the product is the same and the capsules have the same amount of active ingredients and will work in your body the same way. Image credit: Omeprazole new look(external link), Pharmac Read more about: |