subject: A Medical Treatment For The Esophagus [print this page] Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor which is used in the treatment of numerous medical conditions that are related to esophagus, intestines and stomach. Prescribed Omeprazole DR comes in the form of delayed release capsules, and granules to be mixed with water and taken in the form of suspension. Non-prescription Omeprazole DR is available in the form of tablets and capsules.
What's Omeprazole DR? Omeprazole is an acid labile substance that degrades quickly in acidic environment. Consequently, it must be protected from the acidic conditions of the stomach till it reaches the intestine. To achieve this, Omeprazole tablets and capsules are coated with a material that is susceptible to the acidic conditions of the stomach. With this way, Omeprazole is available to the body for a prolonged period after taking it. Omeprazole preparations that are manufactured by this way are classified as Omeprazole DR, where DR means "Delayed release".
Uses of Omeprazole DR: Omeprazole DR is used in the treating of heartburn, inflammation of the esophagus, ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. Additionally, it can be used together with antibiotics in the treatment of ulcers caused by microorganisms. Apart from the conditions discusses, it can possibly be used to treat other medical conditions as recognized by the physician.
Instructions: Omeprazole DR preparations should be taken as prescribed by the doctor. If Over-the-counter drug is taken, it must be taken as shown in the label.
Omeprazole DR tablets are swallowed as a whole with a glass of water. It should not be crushed or chewed or split, while taking them. Delayed release Omeprazole capsules are to be swallowed as a whole or mixed with applesauce and swallowed with a glass of water.
Delayed release Omeprazole preparations don't give any immediate relief to symptoms of heartburn or acidity. Thus, if the person wishes to get quick relief from any symptoms of heartburn, delayed release preparations should be avoided.
Summary: Omeprazole DR preparations provide prolonged action in the body. It's not degraded in the stomach acid, instead guarded by a coating till it reaches the intestine where it gets disintegrated. Thus, Omeprazole is available to the body over a prolonged period of time after taking it.
Duration of taking Omeprazole Dr medication depends upon the medical condition. In some cases, a patient may indicate a huge improvement in duration of about 2 to 4 months. However, it's good to take the full prescribed dose even if one sees major improvements. If the medicines are completed and there are additional symptoms, it is recommended to ask for recommendation from your medical doctor.
