How is Omeprazole dosed?
The dosage for omeprazole may vary based on age, body weight, and medical condition. For adults with GERD, the recommended dose is 20 milligrams (mg) taken once a day before a meal. For children 1 year and older, the dose is typically 5 to 20 mg taken once a day before a meal, based on body weight, as determined by a doctor. Children under 1 year old will have their dosage determined by a doctor.
For Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, the adult dose is 60 mg taken once a day before a meal, with adjustments made by a doctor as needed. The dose for children is also determined by a doctor.
For the powder for oral suspension form, the dosing instructions are as follows:
- To prevent upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding in seriously ill patients: Adults should take 40 mg for the first dose, then after 6 to 8 hours, a second 40 mg dose. After the first day, the dose should be 40 mg once a day for up to 14 days. Children's dosages will be determined by their doctor.
- To treat duodenal ulcer: If combined with antibiotics for an H. pylori infection, take the medications together at the same time of day. Omeprazole capsules and tablets should be swallowed whole; do not open, crush, or chew them. If you cannot swallow the delayed-release capsules, you may open them and sprinkle the pellets on one tablespoon of applesauce, which must be swallowed immediately with a glass of cool water. Do not chew or crush the pellets.
Please consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for the most accurate and up-to-date information on dosing, as it may vary based on individual circumstances and medical history.
What is the dosage form of Omeprazole?
Omeprazole is available in several dosage forms for oral use, including powder for suspension (used to prevent upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding in seriously ill patients) and capsules, delayed-release capsules, suspension, or tablets (used to treat duodenal ulcers, gastric ulcers, GERD, and erosive esophagitis). The specific dosage form and instructions depend on the condition being treated and the age of the patient. Please consult with your doctor for the appropriate dosage and instructions.
What medications are contraindication with Omeprazole?
Omeprazole should not be used together with medicines containing rilpivirine (Edurant, Complera) as it may cause unwanted side effects. It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you or your child are taking, as there might be other interactions that should be considered.
How is Omeprazole administered?
Omeprazole can be administered in several ways, including capsule, tablet, delayed-release capsule, and powder for oral suspension. The specific method of administration depends on the form of omeprazole prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider regarding the dosage, timing, and method of administration. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
What are common precautions when taking Omeprazole?
Common precautions when taking omeprazole include:
- Taking it before a meal, preferably in the morning, as directed by your doctor.
- Swallowing the capsule and tablet forms of omeprazole whole, without opening, crushing, breaking, or chewing the capsule or tablet.
- If you cannot swallow omeprazole delayed-release capsules, you may open them and sprinkle the pellets onto one tablespoon of soft, unheated applesauce, which must be swallowed immediately with a glass of cool water.
- Using only the specified liquids or water to prepare the powder for oral suspension.
- Drinking the mixture immediately after preparation and refilling the cup with water to drink.
- Consulting your doctor for the correct dose based on your age, body weight, and medical condition, and taking the medicine for the recommended duration.
- Informing your doctor about any allergies, other medications you are taking, or if you have liver disease, osteoporosis, or low magnesium levels.
- Reporting any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor, such as stomach pain, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face and throat.
- Avoiding the use of antacids that contain aluminum, magnesium, or calcium, unless advised by your doctor.
- Not taking more than the prescribed dose or using the medication longer than recommended without consulting your doctor. Remember to read and follow the Medication Guide provided with the medicine and always follow your doctor's instructions.