Omeprazole Capsules 40mg - TEVA
Overview
Omeprazole 40mg capsules by TEVA are a highly effective medication used to manage and treat various conditions caused by excessive stomach acid. This medication is classified as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and is widely prescribed for its ability to reduce acid production in the stomach.
Uses
Omeprazole is primarily used to treat the following conditions:
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Helps alleviate heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and persistent cough by reducing stomach acid.
- Duodenal and Gastric Ulcers: Promotes healing of ulcers and prevents their recurrence.
- Erosive Esophagitis: Assists in the healing of acid damage to the esophagus.
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Used to manage this rare condition involving excessive acid production.
Benefits
- Symptom Relief: Provides rapid relief from heartburn and indigestion.
- Healing: Facilitates the healing of acid-related damage to the stomach and esophagus.
- Ulcer Prevention: Helps prevent the formation of new ulcers and promotes the healing of existing ones.
- Cancer Prevention: May reduce the risk of esophageal cancer in patients with chronic acid reflux.
Common Side Effects
While omeprazole is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects, including:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Gas
Serious Side Effects
Although rare, serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention:
- Severe stomach pain
- Bloody or watery diarrhea
- New or unusual pain in the wrist, thigh, hip, or back
- Signs of kidney problems (e.g., fever, rash, nausea, blood in urine)
Precautions
- Long-term Use: Prolonged use may lead to vitamin B-12 deficiency and the development of stomach growths called fundic gland polyps.