Prilosec Danger

Prilosec OTC is an over-the-counter drug that treats symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. It decreases the amount of acid produced by the stomach to prevent heartburn. According to Prilosecotc.com, "Prilosec OTC works by directly blocking many of the active stomach pumps that produce acid before they start. With fewer active pumps, your stomach produces enough acid to break down food, but prevents excess acid that causes the pain of heartburn."

Proton Pump Inhibitor

• Prilosec OTC is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Upon eating, pumps within the stomach produce acid to break down food; when excess acid is produced, it floods into the esophagus and heartburn can occur. PPIs block the pumps from producing too much acid, thus avoiding heartburn.

Uses

• Prilosec OTC is taken orally once daily for frequent heartburn. According to Prilosecotc.com, frequent heartburn is defined as "2 or more days a week." It is not intended for immediate relief from temporary heartburn as are Tums or antacids. Prilosec OTC is meant for 24 hours of prevention of serious heartburn.

Side Effects

• Some side effects from Prilosec OTC can be constipation, cough, dizziness, vitamin B-12 deficiency or back pain. If heartburn continues for more than three months or if frequent chest pain, shoulder pain, wheezing or shortness of breath occur, a doctor should be contacted. Heartburn combined with chest and shoulder pain can be the first sign of a heart attack, so always inform a doctor of any over-the-counter medications you plan to use before you begin taking them.

FDA

• In 2007, the FDA performed a study to investigate the claims that long-term users of Prilosec have increased risk of heart attacks, heart failure and heart-related sudden death compared to those who received surgery. According to the official FDA site, the results were that the data did not suggest an increased risk and "Health-care providers should not change their prescribing practices and patients should not change their use of these products at this time."

Allergic Reactions

• It is possible that a patient could have an allergy to omeprazole, the scientific name of Prilosec. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can be rash, swelling and/or itching of the face, tongue or throat, severe dizziness or trouble breathing. Always discuss possible allergic reactions with a doctor before taking any medication.

Pregnancy

• The FDA does not know if Prilosec is harmful to an unborn baby. A doctor should be notified if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking Prilosec.