Legal Classification of Medication
POM and P
Omeprazole can be obtained in accordance with a prescription (POM) given by an appropriate practitioner and also obtained from pharmacies (P) through a one to one consultation with a pharmacist.
Omeprazole 10mg can only be sold to the public through pharmacies for the short term relief of heartburn in adults over 18 years old for a maximum of 4 weeks and using a pack size of 28 tablets. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 20mg.
Formulations
Omeprazole is available as capsules, tablets, dispersible tablets, and as powder used for intravenous infusion or for reconstitution as an injection. All the formulations except powder for reconstitution are available in strengths of 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg. Powder for reconstitution is only available as 40mg vial.
Class of drug
Omeprazole is a proton-pump inhibitor.
Indications
How does it work?
Proton-pump cells are found in the lining of the stomach, they ‘’pump’’ acid into the stomach by taking in potassium ions and pumping out acid hydrogen ions. The excessive secretion of these hydrogen ions increases the production of stomach acid. Omeprazole causes irreversible inhibition of these pumps so that they stop secreting hydrogen ions into stomach reducing acidity.
How is it taken?
Omeprazole is given by mouth as tablets or capsules containing enteric-coated pellets or granules which should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. The enteric coat is important as omeprazole is sensitive to acid, crushing or chewing the medication destroys the coating preventing the medication from working properly. In patients with swallowing difficulties MUPS® can be used. The contents of these tablets can be dispersed in water or mixed with fruit juice or yoghurt. Preparations consisting of an enteric-coated tablet within a capsule, i.e. Mepradec® should not be opened.
The dose of omeprazole given will depend on what condition is being treated. The GP will make a full assessment of your condition and initiate the appropriate dose to be taken.
Pregnancy and Breast feeding
Studies have revealed no evidence of adverse events of omeprazole on pregnancy or on the health of the foetus or newborn child. Losec® can be used during pregnancy. Omeprazole can be safely taken in pregnancy. Omeprazole is excreted in breast milk but is not likely to influence the child when therapeutic doses are used.
Contra-indication
Omeprazole is contra-indicated if there is known hypersensitivity to omeprazole or to any of the other constituents of the formulation. When a gastric ulcer is suspected, the possibility of cancer should be excluded before treatment with omeprazole is instituted, as treatment may alleviate symptoms and delay diagnosis.
Side-effects
Gastro-intestinal side-effects:
