Omeprazole (
Prilosec®) is a prescription drug used for treating certain conditions related to the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. It is approved to treat
gastroesophageal reflux disease (
GERD), duodenal and stomach ulcers, pathological hypersecretory conditions, and
H. pylori infections.
The medication comes in capsule form and is available in three strengths, including:
- Omeprazole 10 mg capsules
- Omeprazole 20 mg capsules
- Omeprazole 40 mg capsules.
The recommended omeprazole dosage for treating ulcers is 20 mg (for duodenal ulcers) or 40 mg (for gastric ulcers) daily for four to eight weeks. For the treatment of GERD, the usual recommended dose is 20 mg a day for up to four weeks. People with pathological hypersecretory conditions usually require higher dosages.
Dosing for children is determined by the child's weight. Children weighing less than 44 pounds usually start with omeprazole 10 mg capsules (one tablet, once a day), while children weighing more typically take omeprazole 20 mg tablets.
(Click Omeprazole Dosing for more detailed dosing guidelines for the treatment of H. pylori infections, ulcers, erosive esophagitis, and pathological hypersecretory conditions.)
