Transplant Unit

Why is this drug prescribed?

Because of the immunosupressant drugs you will be more prone to getting stomach irritation and stomach ulcers. Omeprazole treats and helps to prevent this by decreasing the amount of acid in your stomach.

How to take omeprazole

Omeprazole is available as capsules containing 10mg or 20mg or 40mg.

The usual dose is 20mg once or twice a day. Swallow the capsules whole with some water.

Possible side effects of omeprazole

Omeprazole is usually well tolerated and side effects, if they occur are generally mild and will go away if you stop taking the capsules. Possible side effects are headache, dizziness, skin rashes, diarrhoea or constipation, nausea (feeling sick), flatulence (wind), dry mouth, feeling faint, difficulty in sleeping.

How to store omeprazole

Omeprazole should be stored in the original container in a dry place away from light and direct heat.

Once the bottle has been opened the capsules should be used within 3 months.

Omeprazole is also known as Losec.