OTCGeneric AvailableProton Pump Inhibitors

omeprazole

Brand names: Prilosec, Zegerid, Yosprala, Talicia, Konvomep, Primeguard, Zegerid Reformulated Aug 2006, UlcerGard

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Chen, PharmD, BCPS

Clinical Pharmacist & Medical Reviewer

Last reviewed: March 19, 2026

Omeprazole is the generic name for Prilosec, Zegerid, Yosprala and 5 other brand names.It belongs to the Proton Pump Inhibitors drug class.

Omeprazole (brand name: Prilosec) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) available both over-the-counter and by prescription. It reduces stomach acid and is used to treat heartburn, GERD, and stomach ulcers..

Typical Cost

$4–$25/month

Forms

capsule +2

Status

OTC

Generic

Available

Check Interactions Compare This Drug Cost & Price Guide Compare Proton Pump Inhibitors Costs

Uses & Indications

OTC: Frequent heartburn (2+ days/week). Prescription: GERD, erosive esophagitis, H. pylori eradication (with antibiotics), Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and NSAID-associated gastric ulcers.

Dosage & Administration

OTC heartburn: 20 mg once daily for 14 days. Prescription GERD: 20–40 mg once daily for 4–8 weeks. Take 30–60 minutes before the first meal of the day for best effect.

How It Works

Omeprazole is a prodrug that is activated in the acidic environment of parietal cell secretory canaliculi. It irreversibly inhibits the H+/K+ ATPase (proton pump), blocking the final step of acid secretion.

Side Effects

Serious Side Effects

C. difficile infectionAcute interstitial nephritisHypomagnesemia

Common Side Effects

HeadacheDiarrheaNauseaAbdominal painFlatulence

Rare Side Effects

Bone fractures (long-term use)Lupus erythematosus

Warnings & Precautions

Long-term use associated with increased risk of C. difficile infection, bone fractures, hypomagnesemia, and vitamin B12 deficiency. May mask symptoms of gastric malignancy.

Contraindications

Contraindicated with rilpivirine-containing products. Hypersensitivity to omeprazole or other PPIs.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to take omeprazole?

Omeprazole works best when taken 30–60 minutes before your first meal of the day. This allows the drug to be activated and block proton pumps before they are stimulated by eating.

How long can I take omeprazole?

OTC omeprazole is intended for 14-day courses, repeated no more than 3 times per year. Long-term use should be under medical supervision due to risks of B12 deficiency, bone loss, and magnesium deficiency.

Is omeprazole safe to take every day?

Short-term daily use is generally safe. Long-term daily use (months to years) carries risks including hypomagnesemia, bone fractures, and vitamin B12 deficiency. Discuss with your doctor if you need it for more than 8 weeks.

Medical Disclaimer

The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.