Prilosec is a drug that is known in Canada as Losec. Prilosec aside from its other name is known by its generic name which is Omeprazole.

Omeprazole works by treating the overproduction of acid in the stomach.
Prilosec Indications

Prilosec is indicated for the treatment of Gastric and Duodenal Ulcers, Gastroesophageal reflux disease. Prilosec can also be used to treat ulcers especially the ones associate with infection. On the other hand, it can also be used to treat Zollinger-Ellison Diseases or overproduction of acid in the stomach.

Prilosec can also be used to treat Dyspepsia, the disease responsible for sour stomach, belching, heartburn and indigestion.
Prilosec Warnings

If have any allergic reactions to Prilosec or with any of its components, regardless if it is a previous occurrence or a recent one, Allergic reactions to this medicine should be known by your doctor before deciding to take Prilosec.

Study on Pregnancy and the effects of Prilosec have not been tested on humans, however it has been tested on animals and studies have shown that Prilosec can cause harm to the fetus.

The active ingredient of Prilosec which is Omeprazole has the tendency to be passed into the breast milk. Upon administering Prilosec on nursing animals, it has been found out that the animals that were nursed by breast milk of nursing mothers taking Prilosec had the tendency to develop tumors and cancer in animals. Use Prilosec with caution or discuss with your doctor if breastfeeding is recommended for you or not.

You should also tell your doctor if you have had a history of is currently suffering from Liver disease or liver problems as this condition may worsen if you will be taking Prilosec.
Prilosec Intake Guidelines

Take Prilosec immediately before a meal may start. The most preferable time of intake is in the mornings. This medicine can be taken with or without food as this medicine will not cause stomach upsets.

Do not chew or break the tablet or capsule. You should swallow the tablet or capsule as a whole.

Take omeprazole capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water; do not crush, break or chew. The capsules can be opened and the contents sprinkled on a small amount of applesauce or yogurt, given with fruit juices, or swallowed immediately with water. Omeprazole works best if taken on an empty stomach. It is best to take the capsules 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with omeprazole?
•ampicillin
•diazepam
•digoxin
•disulfiram
•doxercalciferol
•iron salts
•itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole or other prescription medicines for fungus or yeast infections
•phenytoin
•tacrolimus
•warfarin

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from taking omeprazole?
Serious side effects are rare. Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•blood in urine
•chest pain or tightness
•dark yellow or brown urine
•fever or sore throat
•pain or difficulty passing urine
•redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
•shortness of breath
•skin rash
•unusual bleeding or bruising
•yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•headache
•diarrhea or constipation

What should I watch for while taking omeprazole?
It can take several days of therapy with omeprazole before your stomach condition improves. Check with your prescriber or health care professional if your condition does not improve, or if it gets worse. You can take antacids for the occasional relief of pain unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you otherwise.

Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.