Important Facts about Omeprazole DR (Delayed Release) Medications

One of the medications used for acid reflux, heartburn (GERD) and peptic ulcer treatment are proton pump inhibitor class drugs such as Omeprazole. Acid reflux and peptic ulcers are caused by over production of acid in the stomach. In cases of peptic ulcers infected with H. Pylori bacteria, the proton pump inhibitor drugs are accompanied with antibiotics prescribed by the doctor.

What are Omeprazole DR medications?

Omeprazole is a very acid labile substance, meaning, it is degraded rapidly in acidic conditions. Therefore, it must be protected from the gastric juices in the stomach until it reaches the almost neutral environment in the intestine where it is absorbed. To achieve this, our capsules and tablets have acid resistant enteric coating and are formulated in such a way to make the Omeprazole active ingredient available over an extended period of time after ingestion – that is why it is called "Delayed Release" Capsules and Tablets.

How are Omeprazole DR medications taken?

Our Omeprazole capsules and tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed as this destroys the enteric coating – making it prone to attacks by the stomach acids. If the patient is unable to swallow tablets, we recommend letting the patient have the capsules instead. The capsules can be opened and the contents mixed in with applesauce and should be swallowed immediately with water. The medication works best when taken an hour before a meal when the stomach is empty. In most cases, it is taken once a day; however, the patient should follow his physician's recommendations.

What to do when missing a dose of Omeprazole?

When you miss a dose, take the Omeprazole DR medication as soon as you can and do not take double or extra doses for that day. If you miss more than 2 days of taking the medication, contact your physician and ask for another prescription schedule.

For how long should one take Omeprazole DR medications?

It depends on the severity of the medical condition and the patient will have to consult the physician's recommendation in this case. There are many cases wherein the patient shows vast improvement in the span of 2 to 4 months of usage. Omeprazole medications should not be mistaken as a "fast relief" medicine as it takes time for damaged tissues in the stomach or esophagus to heal. In more severe cases, acid reflux or peptic ulcer treatment will have to be extended to long term. The medication should not be stopped even if the symptoms have 'disappeared' without the doctor's recommendations.

On the FAQ page, you can find more information about our products on Omeprazole.

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.