Gastro-Resistant Omeprazole Capsules BP 10mg

About Gastro-Resistant Omeprazole Capsules BP 10mg

Gastro-Resistant Omeprazole Capsules BP 10 mg contain omeprazole, a medication belonging to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). It works by reducing the amount of stomach acid produced by the proton pumps in the stomach lining, which helps treat conditions related to excess stomach acid.

Common uses of Omeprazole (Gastro-Resistant Capsules):

1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Omeprazole is commonly used to treat GERD, where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and irritation.
2. Peptic ulcers: It is used to treat peptic ulcers (ulcers in the stomach or upper part of the small intestine), often caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori or the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
3. Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: A rare condition where the stomach produces excessive acid, and omeprazole helps reduce acid secretion.
4. H. pylori eradication: Omeprazole is sometimes used in combination with antibiotics to eradicate the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which can cause ulcers.

How it works:

Omeprazole works by inhibiting the proton pump, a specific enzyme in the stomach lining responsible for producing stomach acid. By blocking this pump, omeprazole reduces acid secretion, providing relief from symptoms like heartburn and promoting healing of ulcers.

Key features of gastro-resistant capsules:

• The gastro-resistant coating helps protect the medication from being broken down by stomach acid, ensuring it reaches the small intestine, where it is absorbed and works most effectively.
• This special coating also helps prevent the irritation of the stomach lining by the medication itself.

Common side effects of Omeprazole:

• Headache
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Abdominal pain or flatulence
• Vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use)
• Increased risk of bone fractures (long-term use)
• Skin rashes or itching
• Kidney issues (rare but can occur with prolonged use)

Important considerations:

• Short-term use: Omeprazole is generally considered safe for short-term use, but if used long-term, monitoring for potential side effects such as low magnesium levels, osteoporosis, and vitamin B12 deficiency is necessary.
• Drug interactions: Omeprazole can interact with certain drugs, including blood thinners like warfarin, antifungals, and some HIV medications. Always inform your doctor about other medications you are taking.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Omeprazole is classified as pregnancy category C (which means the risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out), so it should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. It is excreted in breast milk, so consult a doctor before using it while breastfeeding.
• Discontinuation: When stopping omeprazole after long-term use, some people experience a rebound increase in stomach acid production. Your doctor may provide guidance on tapering the dose.

Omeprazole is effective for controlling stomach acid-related conditions, but it's important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects or concerns.