Generic Name
Omeprazole
Brand Name
Prilosec
Type of Drug
Antiulcer, gastric acid pump inhibitor
Form and Storage
Tablets and capsules
Store at room temperature. Do not break delayed release tablets.
Indications for Use
Treatment and prevention of ulcers in the stomach and upper intestines.
General Information
Not FDA approved for use in veterinary medicine. Available by prescription. Only recently used in veterinary medicine and little is known about how it affects animals. Omeprazole inhibits acid formation by the stomach by a different mechanism than cimetidine and other histamine H2 receptor antagonists. Not used extensively in veterinary medicine due to cost. In humans, it has a longer duration of action than cimetidine and is more effective at preventing ulcers from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs (e.g., aspirin).
Usual Dose and Administration
Contact your veterinarian for dose information. Duration of treatment depends on reason for treatment and response to treatment. In humans, it is recommended not to treat for longer than 8 weeks.
Side Effects
Appears to be well tolerated in animals. May see lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, blood changes, urinary tract infections, protein in the urine, or nervous system disorders.
Contraindications/Warnings
Do not use in patients hypersensitive (allergic) to it.
Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals.
Use with caution in animals with liver disease.
Drug or Food Interactions
May increase effects of diazepam, phenytoin, and warfarin.
May increase risk of bone marrow suppression if used with other drugs that cause it.
Absorption of ketoconazole, ampicillin, or iron and other oral medications may be reduced due to the change in the stomach pH level.
Give before meals, preferably in the morning.
Overdose/Toxicity
Limited clinical experiences with overdoses.
