Prilosec is an over-the-counter medication that treats frequent heartburn, which occurs when stomach acids come in contact with the esophagus. Frequent heartburn means the patient experience heartburn at least two days per week. Prilosec causes the stomach to make less acid, which is then less likely to affect the esophagus. Prilosec can cause dangerous allergic reactions and can react harmfully with other medications.
What are some important things I should know about Prilosec?
Prilosec can cause dangerous allergic reactions, and it can react with medications such as blood-thinning, antifungal and anti-yeast, anxiety, and heart medications.
More than 60 million people experience heartburn at least once a month, and 15 million experience it daily.
Prilosec is taken once a day for 14 days. This course of medication should not be repeated more than once every four months. If symptoms do not go away or decrease, patients should contact their doctors.
Prilosec is for people who experience frequent heartburn (two or more days per week). It is not for people who experience heartburn every once in awhile, or for people who want immediate relief from heartburn symptoms. Prilosec may take up to four days before its effects are felt, and there are other medications that provide immediate relief from symptoms.
Prilosec can cause dangerous allergic reactions and interactions with other drugs. Make sure to tell your doctor about any other medication you are taking, and what medication you are allergic to. Prilosec can also cause:
- headache
- diarrhea
- constipation
- upset stomach and stomach pain
- vomiting
- cough
- cold symptoms
- dizziness
- rash
You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction, which is indicated by:
- difficulty breathing
- chest constriction
- swelling of the face, mouth and tongue
- heart racing
- sweating
- difficulty swallowing
You should also tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking. Also, contact your doctor if you notice:
- black or bloody stools
- have trouble swallowing
- vomiting blood