Omeprazole Teva Pharma (Omeprazole)

Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that acts on the gastric acid secretion pathway.

• Gastro‑oesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Provides relief of heartburn and promotes healing of erosive esophagitis.
• Peptic ulcer disease: Facilitates ulcer healing and reduces the risk of recurrence.
• Zollinger‑Ellison syndrome: Controls excessive gastric acid production associated with gastrin‑secreting tumors.
• Helicobacter pylori eradication regimens: Used as an adjunct to antibiotic therapy to improve eradication rates.
• NSAID‑associated ulcer prevention: Lowers the risk of ulcer development in patients requiring chronic NSAID therapy.

• Omeprazole selectively and irreversibly inhibits the H+/K+‑ATPase enzyme (the gastric proton pump) located on the secretory surface of parietal cells. By blocking this final step of acid secretion, it markedly reduces both basal and stimulated gastric acidity, allowing mucosal healing and symptom relief.

Omeprazole is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Diarrhoea: usually self‑limiting.
• Nausea: occasional and transient.
• Abdominal pain or discomfort.
• Flatulence: excess gas formation.
• Constipation: infrequent.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis, angioedema).
• Clostridioides difficile‑associated colitis.
• Acute interstitial nephritis.
• Low magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia) with prolonged use.
• Bone fractures with long‑term therapy.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency with chronic use.

Omeprazole should be used with consideration of patient‑specific factors and proper storage.

• Assess renal and hepatic function: dose adjustment may be required in severe impairment.
• Review concomitant medications: potential for drug‑drug interactions.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period necessary.
• Monitor for signs of infection: especially Clostridioides difficile.
• Evaluate bone health: consider calcium and vitamin D supplementation for long‑term users.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Omeprazole can affect the pharmacokinetics of several co‑administered medicines.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Clopidogrel: reduced antiplatelet effect, may increase cardiovascular risk.
• Atazanavir and other protease inhibitors: decreased absorption, loss of antiviral efficacy.
• Methotrexate (high‑dose): increased serum concentrations, risk of toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Warfarin: potential alteration of INR, requires more frequent monitoring.
• Digoxin: may increase serum levels, watch for toxicity signs.
• Phenytoin: possible reduction in serum concentration, monitor seizure control.
• Diazepam: may increase plasma concentrations, observe for enhanced sedation.