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Peak Effect Time for Prilosec

Prilosec is a medication available for treating persistent heartburn. Prilosec is sold over the counter, or a stronger prescription of it can be obtained through a physician. Prilosec is packaged in tablet form and ingested orally. Prilosec is administered on an as needed basis, and usually works within 30 minutes. Prilosec is most effective if taken one-half hour before a meal.

  1. Dosage

    • Take Prilosec as directed to prevent side effects from occurring. Prilosec is more effective if taken with a full glass of water. It is more effective if taken before a meal, because heartburn is more likely to occur during or just after a meal.

    Effectiveness

    • Prilosec will reach peak effectiveness within one hour, and with appropriate diet, your treatment with Prilosec should control heartburn symptoms throughout the day. One 20 mg tablet taken 30 minutes before a meal should keep heartburn from occurring. It is recommended that you do not take Prilosec for more than two weeks at a time. If heartburn symptoms are persistent, consult a doctor.

    Overdose

    • An additional dose of this medication will not cause it to be more effective. Further, an overdose can lead to blurred vision, irregular or fast heart rate, nausea, vomiting, sweating, mouth dryness, drowsiness or headache. Get medical attention if you believe you are experiencing Prilosec overdose.

    Severe Reactions

    • Severe reactions to Prilosec are life-threatening. If you are experiencing a severe reaction to Prilosec, get immediate medical attention. Do not wait to call your physician. Severe reactions include hives, oral swelling of the mouth, lips or throat, as well as difficulty breathing or chest pain. Seek immediate medical care if you are experiencing these symptoms.

    Warning

    • Prilosec can pass into breast milk, so do not use Prilosec while you are breastfeeding. Follow your doctor's diet instructions while taking Prilosec. Do not use Prilosec if you have been experiencing the following conditions: difficulty swallowing, bloody stools, bloody vomit, heartburn that has lasted longer than 90 days, chest pain, unexplained wheezing, unintended weight loss, nausea or vomiting, or unexplained stomach pain.

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