What Is Prilosec?
February 10th, 2010
Prilosec is a proton pump inhibitor that is primarily used for treating excess acid production in the stomach. With excess gastric acid production, the possibility of developing dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and gastroesophageal reflex disease (GERD) are high. In other words, Prilosec prevents heartburn. Heartburn happens when there is too much food that was eaten and the stomach acid went back up the esophagus (that’s the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach). This is the reflux mechanism which can have a painful sensation when it occurs.
The generic name of Prilosec is omeprazole. It is a white to off-white crystalline powder in weak base that highly degrades when subjected to an acidic environment. It can work on your stomach for 24-hours, providing you with a lining to prevent your stomach from producing too much acid. Prilosec is available over-the-counter without prescription.
HOW TO USE PRILOSEC
Prilosec is taken orally for once a day only. It is usually given as a treatment for frequent heartburn for a course of 14-days for up to three times in a year. Prilosec is available in over-the-counter (OTC) pill form or in oral suspension form. It is safe and can be used concomitantly with other antibiotics if you are suffering from infections other than heartburn or a possible GERD or PUD. Although Prilosec is available over-the-counter, it is best to consult first your physician before taking in any drug. It would be wise to determine first if you are really having heartburn and something that is more serious, such as PUD or GERD.
WHAT IS PUD?
PUD or Peptic Ulcer Disease is when the lining of the stomach has been eroded to the point that it has ulcerated or that a sore has been created. This is very painful because the wound is inside the stomach and is constantly being exposed to the stomach’s naturally produced acid. It has been reported that peptic ulcer disease has been caused by a certain bacteria that thrives in acidic environments in the stomach. These bacteria are known as Helicobacter pylori.
With Prilosec, the lining of the stomach will be coated and it will prevent the acid from creating more damage to the already ulcerated portion. This will also prevent H.pylori from infecting the sore and adding fuel to fire.
WHAT IS GERD?
GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is the regurgitation of the acid up into the esophagus, creating a painful burning sensation in the chest after eating too much fatty foods. When the stomach is very full from foodstuff, it tends to secrete more acid and since there is limited space, it will overflow back to the esophagus. Prilosec fights this reflux by inhibiting too much acid to be produced by the stomach. And with that, pain will be minimized or diminished.