Prilosec Side Effects

Our stomach produces acid which is used in the process of digestion. This acid is very necessary for the proper functioning of the stomach and is useful in absorbing the nutrition from the food. But excess production or improper production of these acids may even result in stomach ulcers. To stop or restrict the production of excess acid in the stomach, some drugs are used. Prilosec or Omeprazole is one of them. This drug is considered as the proton pump inhibitor which blocks the cells that produce acid in the stomach and hence reduces the acid content. It is also very helpful in preventing heartburn, indigestion and healing of the damage caused due to acids in the esophagus. Though it works very efficiently, there are several prilosec side effects which makes it dangerous for some people. So, let's find out the side effects and dangers of this drug, in the following paragraphs.

Side Effects of Prilosec

There are many side effects of the prilosec drug. These side effects can be acute as well as chronic. Some common side effects are seen in the initial stages when the medication has just been started, but later the body gets used to it and the side effects subside. But in some cases the person may experience severe side effects in which the drug should be discontinued immediately. Following are some of the common and severe prilosec or omeprazole side effects. Have a look.

Headache
Headache is the first thing which you will observe as a side effect of prilosec. It is very common and nearly 7% people complain about it after taking this drug. But as it a common side effect, you can just take pain killers to get rid of the pain. If the headache is accompanied with fever then you need to get medical assistance. Once your body will gets to the drug, this side effect will subside automatically.

Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are also some of the common side effects of prilosec. They can be observed in the initial stage of taking medications and will diminish with time. But if vomiting is observed for a prolonged period of time then it you need to consult a doctor immediately to avoid any further complications.

Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain
Diarrhea and abdominal pain are also among the common side effects of prilosec. As this drug blocks the cells which produce acid in the stomach, the digestive process gets disturbed. This may lead to abdominal pain and diarrhea, as whatever you eat will not be digested properly and will be thrown out of the body as waste. Though they are not very serious side effects, if the conditions continue for a prolonged period of time i.e., more than three days, then consult a doctor for further guidance.

Liver Dysfunction
The prilosec drug is broken down in the liver and hence its prolonged use may increase the toxicity of the liver. People who have any kind of liver disorders should consult the doctor before taking this drug. Some of the symptoms associated with liver dysfunction are sweating, confusion, drowsiness, burred vision, increased heart rate, dry mouth, etc. Consult a doctor immediately if you observe such symptoms.

Allergy
Many people may show allergic reaction towards prilosec. This side effect one can be observed as red itchy bumps on the skin, chest pain, swollen hands, shortness of breath, swelling in lips or tongue, etc. In such cases, the drug should be discontinued and the person should consult a doctor immediately.

Gastric Problems
Prolonged use of this drug may lead to inflammation of the stomach lining which may further lead to some gastric problems. Hence, in such cases you need to take medical assistance in order to avoid dangerous consequences.

Cardiovascular and Nervous System Problems
These problems are very rarely observed as side effects of prilosec. Hypertension, palpitations, peripheral edema, angina etc. are some of the cardiovascular problems faced by this drug and dizziness, headache, numbness and vertigo are related to the problems associated with the nervous system.

These were some of the side effects of prilosec. The common side effects will subside with time but the severe ones can culminate into life-threatening conditions. You need to take care of the diet and instructions given by the doctor. If you have overcome the symptoms of various side effects but are still taking the drugs then take extra care as chronic side effects may appear again. Though it is one of the best stomach ulcer treatment, do not take or recommend prilosec drug on your own without a prescription, as it may be dangerous. Consult a doctor before taking this drug. Overdose of this drug may be life-threatening. Hence, use it only as prescribed by the doctor.