Omeprazole is one of the most widely used proton pump inhibitors in the UK, and is used to treat conditions such as acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion, but there are potential risks
People who take the medication should be aware of the risks caused by long-term use(Image: Getty)
Omeprazole ranks among Britain’s most frequently prescribed medications.
Latest figures reveal 73 million NHS prescriptions for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as Omeprazole, were issued in England during 2022-23.
Further data indicates PPI usage impacts roughly 15% of the population.
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PPIs are medications that reduce stomach acid production. They function by blocking the proton pumps, enzymes situated in the stomach lining that generate acid.
This alleviates problems like acid reflux and heartburn.
Other medical ailments addressed by PPIs include indigestion, healing of stomach ulcers, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
It can also be utilised, in combination with antibiotics, to tackle the stomach infection Helicobacter pylori.
Widespread PPIs include Omeprazole (Prilosec), Esomeprazole (Nexium), Lansoprazole (Prevacid), Pantoprazole (Protonix), and Rabeprazole (AcipHex).
Whilst they prove effective, especially for prolonged treatment courses, there are potential dangers linked with long-term usage, reports the Mirror.
The NHS has issued a caution about this on its website. The guidance states: “Do not take omeprazole for longer than two weeks if you bought it without a prescription. See a GP if your symptoms get worse or do not get better.”
One risk associated with long-term use of PPIs is an increased likelihood of a bacterial infection known as Clostridioides difficile.
This bacterium can trigger an infection in the intestines, leading to diarrhoea and other symptoms such as stomach pain and fever.
This bacterium typically causes illness when antibiotics disrupt the balance of normal gut bacteria, allowing Clostridioides difficile to flourish and produce toxins. Symptoms include:
Watery or offensive stools, sometimes with mucus or bloodAbdominal pain or tendernessFeverLoss of appetiteNausea
In most individuals, Clostridioides difficile coexists harmlessly in the intestines alongside various other bacteria. However, when antibiotics wipe out the beneficial bacteria, they can rapidly multiply.
These toxins irritate the colon, resulting in infection symptoms.
Clostridioides difficile can be caused by medication upsetting the natural gut flora. It can also be spread through spores that survive on contaminated surfaces.
It primarily affects at-risk groups, including the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
Omeprazole usually comes in tablets, capsules, and a liquid form for ingestion. Certain tablets can be dissolved in water.
The dosage and length of treatment depend on the specific type of omeprazole you are using and the reason for its use. It is generally taken once or twice daily.
Some individuals may only need it for a few days, whilst others might require continued use for several weeks, months, or even years. Always check the packaging or leaflet that comes with your medication.
If you’re unsure about how to take it or experience any problems, seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.
The NHS states when taking omeprazole:
try to take it at the same time each morning if you take it once a day, or at the same time each morning and evening if you take it twice a dayyou can take it with or without foodswallow tablets and capsules with water – do not chew or crush capsules or tablets labelled “enteric coated” or “gastro resistant”
It adds: “Ask a pharmacist for advice if you have problems swallowing pills or capsules. They may be able to suggest different ways to take your medicine.”
Like all medicines, omeprazole can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them.
Common side effects of omeprazole include:
a headachestomach painfeeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting)constipation or diarrhoeafarting more than usual
The NHS says: “Omeprazole will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery. But if you feel dizzy or have problems with your vision after taking it, wait until you no longer have these side effects.”