Omeprazole 20 mg and 40 mg Capsules: Its Action and Pharmacology

If you have read about our previous article regarding Omeprazole capsules then you will know some facts about how Omeprazole works and its advantages in the treatment of peptic ulcer and heartburn. This article provides more detailed information about the mechanisms of Omeprazole capsules and tablets.

Action and Clinical Pharmacology:

Omeprazole restrains the proton pumps – a gastric enzyme known as H KATPase that catalyzes exchange of Hand K. Omeprazole is very effective in terms of the inhibition of both stimulated acid secretion and basal acid secretion. Depending on the dose, the inhibition limits are controlled. Doses of Omeprazole 20 mg and Omeprazole 40 mg show effective and consistent control of acid production. As tested by clinics for a trial in patients having duodenal ulcers – Omeprazole 20 mg tablets has demonstrated same inhibition of stimulated acid secretion and a similar effect for 24 hour stomach acid PH as Omeprazole 20 mg capsules. After 5 days of taking in Omeprazole 20 mg tablets once a day, the result was a mean decrease of around 70% in acid peak output.

To eradicate H. pylori, bacteria that thrive in the acidity of the stomach, Omeprazole is not enough. Studies show that Omeprazole can suppress H. Pylori along with certain antibiotics can achieve the eradication of the bacterial infection for peptic ulcer treatment. The treatment is associated with relief from symptoms, healing of the mucosal lesions and a decreased rate of ulcer recurrence along with long-term remission from peptic ulcer. It also decreases the need for a prolonged antisecretory therapy.

Omeprazole Tablets versus Omeprazole Capsules:

The Omeprazole tablet (formulated as a single unit) enters the intestine and dissolves as one unit. The tablet is absorbed very fast while Omeprazole capsules (formulated as a multiple unit) are slowly emptied from the stomach to the intestine. However, Omeprazole 20 mg tablets and 20 mg capsules have the same pharmacodynamic effects as evaluated via the inhibition of stimulated acid secretion and effects on 24-hour intragastric pH.

Our Omeprazole DR (delayed release) granules are enteric coated, ensuring that the medicine gets through the acidic environment of the stomach as it goes to the intestine for its absorption.

Dosage and Administration:

Depending on the medical condition assessed by the doctor, the patient may either be prescribed with Omeprazole 40 mg or 20 mg once daily or in cases of excessive acid secretion – the dose schedule may be twice daily. The Omeprazole 40 mg or 20 mg medication should be taken every day for 14 days – after which the doctor will then assess the effects of the medication if your condition has improved. The Omeprazole capsules and tablets should not be crushed or chewed but it should be swallowed directly.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.