#17: omeprazole (Prilosec) | GERD, Heartburn, PUD, and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome

Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibiting drug that helps regulate the secretion of stomach acid. The most common brand name is Prilosec. Omeprazole is available over the counter (OTC) as well as by prescription only (RX). The OTC indication is for heartburn and should be used no longer than 14 days in a 4 month period. Typical dosing ranges from 10 -40 mg po qid to bid unless treating Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. When treating Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome doses can get as high as 180 mg daily. The average Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome dose is 60-70 mg qd. Omeprazole should be used cautiously (if at all) in the geriatric population due to risk of bone fracture if taking longer than 1 year. This drug is primarily metabolized through the CYP2C19 pathway use with strong inducers are to be avoided. Common side effects are headache, stomach pain, diarrhea, and gas. Diarrhea may be of particular concern due to risk of C.diff.  Go to DrugCardsDaily.com for episode show notes which consist of the drug summary, quiz, and link to the drug card for FREE! Please SUBSCRIBE, FOLLOW, and RATE on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever your favorite place to listen to podcasts are. The main goal is to go over the Top 200 Drugs with the occasional drug of interest. Also, if you’d like to say hello, suggest a drug, or leave some feedback I’d really appreciate hearing from you! Leave a voice message at anchor.fm/drugcardsdaily or find me on twitter @drugcardsdaily