Omeprazole: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Omeprazole was the first proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and is still one of the most used. It is available in Pakistan as capsules, sachets and injections, under brands such as Risek and Losec.
How Omeprazole works
Omeprazole blocks the proton pumps in the stomach lining that release acid. With less acid, the food pipe and stomach lining can heal and symptoms settle.
What is Omeprazole used for?
- Heartburn and acid reflux (GERD)
- Healing and preventing stomach and duodenal ulcers
- Clearing H. pylori infection, together with antibiotics
- Protecting the stomach during long-term NSAID use
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Side effects of Omeprazole
Not everyone gets side effects. The ones reported more often are:
- Headache
- Stomach pain, wind, constipation or diarrhoea
- Nausea
See a doctor if you have severe or persistent watery diarrhoea, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Precautions and warnings
- See a doctor before using it if you have weight loss, difficulty swallowing, vomit blood or pass black stools.
- Long-term use can lower magnesium and vitamin B12 and may raise fracture risk, so it should be reviewed regularly.
- It interacts with clopidogrel and some other medicines, so tell your doctor what you take.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions about Omeprazole
Should omeprazole be taken before or after breakfast?
It is usually taken before a meal, often before breakfast, as it works best when the stomach’s acid pumps are about to be switched on by food.
What is the difference between omeprazole and esomeprazole?
Esomeprazole is one isomer of omeprazole. They work the same way and are used for the same conditions.
Omeprazole brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 50+ products containing Omeprazole from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
