Unexpected Facts About Omeprazole That Will Blow Your Mind

5. Potential Medication Interactions

Omeprazole reduces the effectiveness of nelfinavir, atazanavir, and rilpivirine, and it should not be taken with any of these medicines. Omeprazole also reduces the effectiveness of clopidogrel, and this could lead to blood clots, so patients who take clopidogrel should not take omeprazole. Individuals who take high doses of voriconazole might need a lower dose of omeprazole to avoid side effects, and omeprazole significantly increases the amounts of warfarin, digoxin, saquinavir, and tacrolimus in the body. Patients may have their doses of these medicines lowered while they are taking omeprazole. Antibiotics such as ampicillin may not be as readily absorbed by the body while patients are taking omeprazole, and omeprazole also interferes with the body's ability to absorb iron-containing products. Patients using erlotinib as part of their cancer treatment should speak to their healthcare team; omeprazole can interfere with the effectiveness of this treatment.

6. Commonly Prescribed Alternatives

Patients who cannot use omeprazole may be prescribed esomeprazole, pantoprazole, ranitidine, or famotidine. Other commonly prescribed alternatives include simethicone, calcium carbonate, and magnesium hydroxide. Some of these alternatives are available over-the-counter, and stronger doses of the same medicines may be prescribed by a physician. Some doctors may suggest lansoprazole as an alternative medication for omeprazole as well. Patients should tell their doctor about all over-the-counter medicines and prescriptions they take, and the physician also needs to know about all vitamins, minerals, and supplements the patient uses. When discussing the need for alternative medications, the patient should mention any known allergies to medicines and any side effects experienced while taking omeprazole.