If you\u2019ve ever had heartburn or acid reflux, you\u2019ve probably heard of omeprazole. Or maybe it\u2019s already sitting in your medicine cabinet.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s one of the top ten most commonly prescribed medications in the United States and the most common medication prescribed for acid-related stomach issues,\u201d says Karl Langberg, MD<\/a>, a gastroenterologist with Hartford HealthCare<\/a> and PACT Gastroenterology.<\/p>\n And while it\u2019s highly effective, it also has risks, like any other medication.<\/p>\n So, what side effects should you actually watch for? Here\u2019s what to know.<\/p>\n What is omeprazole?<\/p>\n Omeprazole is a type of proton pump inhibitor (PPI), a medication that reduces how much acid your stomach produces. You might recognize it by the brand name Prilosec or Prilosec OTC.<\/p>\n Doctors use omeprazole to treat:<\/p>\n Acid reflux and heartburn (GERD). \u201cFor most patients, omeprazole brings fast relief,\u201d says Dr. Langberg. \u201cBut it should be taken with care, especially long-term.\u201d<\/p>\n > Related: How to Choose the Right Acid Reflux Medication<\/a><\/p>\n Common omeprazole side effects<\/p>\n Most people tolerate omeprazole well. And when side effects do happen, they\u2019re usually mild.<\/p>\n \u201cOmeprazole is really a pretty safe medication,\u201d says Dr. Langberg. \u201cWe used to think they were as safe as a Tic-Tac. But with time, after millions of people took omeprazole, there are some side effects that have come to light.\u201d<\/p>\n Common side effects may include:<\/p>\n Headache Serious omeprazole side effects are rare, but possible<\/p>\n Long-term use can also carry a small risk of more serious side effects, including:<\/p>\n Low magnesium That doesn\u2019t mean everyone needs to stop taking it. But it does mean long-term use should be reviewed with a provider.<\/p>\n \u201cIf something feels off, especially if you\u2019ve been taking it for awhile, check in with your provider,\u201d Dr. Langberg says.<\/p>\n
\nAcid-related stomach pain or discomfort.
\nStomach ulcers.
\nUlcer prevention in people taking anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
\nZollinger-Ellison syndrome and other rare conditions where the stomach makes too much acid.<\/p>\n
\nNausea
\nStomach pain
\nDiarrhea
\nVomiting
\nGas<\/p>\n
\nLow vitamin B12
\nKidney changes
\nBone loss or fracture risk
\nOngoing diarrhea from certain infections
\nSmall stomach growths, which are usually harmless<\/p>\n