subject: How Serious Are Omeprazole Side Effects? [print this page] Omeprazole is the generic drug name that is used in Prilosec. Omeprazole is in the proton pump inhibitors class of drugs that block the amount of stomach acid produced in the stomach. It is used for the treatment of stomach ulcers, GERD and Zollinger Ellison Syndrome. It is used to combat heartburn symptoms caused by acid reflux which can do serious damage to the throat and esophagus including erosion of the esophagus.
Omeprazole is a prescription medication that comes in capsules, tablets and powder form for oral suspension. As with any treatment, patients must not exceed the recommended dose of these drugs. Unfortunately even with careful use, Omeprazole side effects consist of a very long list.
Besides the normal dangers of omeprazole side effects, you have to be even more cautious if you are taking any other drugs and the resulting drug interactions. This can mean the concentration of other drugs like Valium in the blood by stopping the liver from functioning correctly. It can also reduce the effectiveness of other drugs such as those used by HIV patients.
Side Effects of Omeprazole Include:
Constipation
Diarrhea
Flatulence
Headaches
Muscle weakness
Muscle aches, pain or tenderness
Sensitivity to light
Loss of taste
Swelling of the hands, feet, legs and more
Mouth inflammation
Gastrointestinal infection
Nausea
Vomiting
Stomach and abdominal pain
Dizziness
Fainting
Feeling light headed
Paraesthesiae
Itching
Rashes
Drowsiness
Urticaria
Vertigo
General feeling of being ill
Dermatitis and skin problems
Insomnia
Aggressiveness
Agitation
Hair loss
Blurred vision
Depression
Dry mouth
Hallucination
Impotence or other sexual side effects
Profuse sweating
Confusion
Problems with metabolism
Liver problems
Hypersensitivity
Aangioedema
Anaphylactic shock
Bronchospasm
Fever
Kidney problems
Male breast enlargement
Joint pain
Arthritis
Blood and bone marrow issues
Jaundice
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Toxic reactions
Alternatives To Using Omeprazole
Clearly the above omeprazole side effects can not only be unpleasant but can cause other serious health problems, even causing death. Considering omeprazole side effects it must be wise to at least look into alternatives.
Fortunately there are many natural ways to combat acid reflux and the causes of GERD symptoms. But avoiding omeprazole side effects is not the only benefit of choosing a natural treatment program. Other benefits of natural remedies include lower cost, ease of access, and saving time and money spent going back and forth to the doctor and pharmacy.
A natural plan for treatment of GERD and acid reflux that eliminates the risks of omeprazole side effects should include diet, exercise, natural remedies and watching your activities after meals. And whether you choose to roll the dice and take your chances with the risks of omeprazole side effects or institute a natural treatment plan you should start with eliminating bad habits like consuming tobacco products and drinking alcohol.
