Apo-Omeprazole® is the trade name of a protein pump inhibitor that reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach. The drug is used to heal and prevent gastric and duodenal ulcers, and for gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Some physicians prescribe Apo-Omeprazole® for patients who take drugs to control pain and inflammation as protection against ulcers. The medication is also used to treat a rare disorder that produces excessive amounts of stomach acid.
Reflux disease is commonly called heartburn because it can cause a burning sensation when acid or food travels up the esophagus from the stomach. This occurs when a muscle that normally keeps digestive juices in the stomach opens suddenly. The patient may feel a burning in the throat or in the lower chest area. Spicy foods, fatty foods, and caffeine might make the symptoms worse, along with smoking. Over time, GERD can damage the food pipe, leading to more serious health problems including esophageal cancer.
Peptic ulcers can form in the stomach or duodenum, which is a section of the intestine that leads from the stomach. Both types of ulcer can be caused by excess production of acid over an extended period of time. An ulcer can worsen until it eats a hole through the lining of the gut and leads to rectal or oral bleeding. Apo-Omeprazole® helps heal the ulcer and may prevent it from returning.
Doctors typically prescribe Apo-Omeprazole® or a similar medication for patients who are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). These drugs reduce pain and swelling in joints commonly associated with arthritis and rheumatism, and might irritate the lining of the stomach and bring about peptic ulcers. Patients who use Apo-Omeprazole® can reduce the irritation to prevent the formation of ulcers.
The usual dose of Apo-Omeprazole® is 20 mg a day. Typically, ulcers heal in about a month, but they might return if lifestyle and diet remain the same. Patients who suffer from acid indigestion should eat smaller meals throughout the day and avoid alcohol, aspirin, and tobacco, which irritate the stomach. Losing weight is also helpful for some obese people.
Side effects from this medication include dizziness, headache, stomach pain, and gas. Some patients report constipation or diarrhea while using Apo-Omeprazole®. It is not recommended for pregnant women, nursing mothers, or children. The prescribing doctor should be told about any other medications being used because interactions may occur. Any instance of vomiting blood or blood in the stool is cause for immediate medical attention.