Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), a medicine that reduces stomach acid. It’s used for heartburn and acid reflux (GORD), stomach and duodenal ulcers, H. pylori treatment, and to protect the stomach when taking anti-inflammatory painkillers. PPIs are generally safe, but long-term use should be reviewed regularly, because some people keep taking them for years without needing to.
Common PPIs
Omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole and rabeprazole work in a similar way.
How to take omeprazole
- Usually once a day, 30–60 minutes before breakfast (or as directed)
- Swallow capsules whole unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise
- For short-term over-the-counter use, follow the pack limit and see a healthcare provider if symptoms continue
Common side effects
- Headache
- Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, wind
- Stomach pain
Possible long-term risks
Studies have linked long-term PPI use with:
- Low magnesium (can cause muscle cramps, tremor, irregular heartbeat)
- Low vitamin B12
- Increased risk of bone fractures
- Gut infections such as C. difficile
For people who need them, benefits usually outweigh these risks. The key is using the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time.
See a healthcare provider before using or continuing if you have
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- New indigestion over age 55
- Persistent symptoms despite treatment
How to stop safely
- Talk to your nurse or healthcare provider first
- Reduce gradually (e.g. lower dose, then alternate days) to reduce rebound acid
- Use antacids for occasional symptoms while stopping
- Lifestyle measures: smaller meals, avoid eating 3 hours before bed, raise the head of the bed, lose excess weight, limit alcohol, caffeine and spicy or fatty foods if they trigger symptoms, stop smoking
Don’t stop if you were prescribed a PPI to protect your stomach from other medicines, or for conditions like Barrett’s oesophagus, without medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take omeprazole and ibuprofen together?
Healthcare providers often prescribe a PPI to protect the stomach during NSAID use.
Does omeprazole interact with other medicines?
Yes, with some, including clopidogrel and methotrexate. Tell your healthcare provider about all your medicines.
Related reading: Peptic ulcer and H. pylori · Ibuprofen vs paracetamol
Checked against NHS guidance on omeprazole. Updated 5 November 2026.
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