Prilosec Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do I Need Prilosec?

Your health care professional may prescribe PRILOSEC to treat your heartburn and other GERD symptoms. PRILOSEC turns off some of the millions of the "acid pumps" that are inside the lining of your stomach. When PRILOSEC turns off "acid pumps," they cannot produce as much stomach acid. Once stomach acid is under control, there is less acid to "back up" into the esophagus. And in many patients, heartburn and other GERD symptoms are relieved.

What Should I Tell My Health Care Professional?

While most people can take PRILOSEC, it is not for everyone. In order to help your health care professional decide if PRILOSEC is right for you:

Tell your health care professional if you had an allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicine in the past.
Tell your health care professional the names of all the prescription and nonprescription medicines you take.
Tell your health care professional if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant.
Tell your health care professional if you are breast-feeding.
Tell your health care professional if you are under 18 years of age.
It is important for your health care professional to know all this information, as well as your complete medical history.

How Do I Take Prilosec?

If PRILOSEC is prescribed, your health care professional will tell you how and when to take PRILOSEC. PRILOSEC is available as a capsule that comes in different strengths. Your health care professional will prescribe the dose that is right for you. Taking PRILOSEC should be part of your usual routine so that you do not forget to take it. PRILOSEC should be taken before eating. Do not open, chew, or crush PRILOSEC capsules. Swallow each PRILOSEC capsule whole.

Are There Any Side Effects?

PRILOSEC can cause side effects. Some of these side effects are minor and usually do not require you to stop taking the medicine. Others may be more serious.

The most common side effects that occur while taking PRILOSEC are headache, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Other side effects that occur less often include dizziness, constipation, back pain, skin rash, feeling of weakness, cough, and cold symptoms.

There are other side effects that have been reported during treatment with PRILOSEC. These side effects are less common, but some could be serious or even fatal. Discuss with your health care professional the risks versus the benefits of this treatment. For a complete listing of all the side effects that have been reported with the use of PRILOSEC, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider for a copy of the Professional Package Insert, and ask him or her to explain it to you.

How Long Will I Need To Take Prilosec?

The length of your treatment depends upon your medical condition and how you respond to the medicine. Some people notice an improvement in their GERD symptoms soon after starting PRILOSEC. Others may not respond or must take the medicine longer before they see a response. Only your health care professional can decide how long you should take PRILOSEC. The most important thing is to follow all of your health care professional's instructions

Who can prescribe Prilosec?

In many states, medications can be prescribed by nurse practitioners and physician's assistants in addition to doctors. You may be under the care of one of these qualified healthcare professionals who can also determine whether PRILOSEC is right for you.

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