The active ingredient in Losec Omeprazole, omeprazole, is a proton pump inhibitor, a type of medicine that decreases the production of stomach acid. It helps reduce irritation to the lining of the stomach, which in turn relieves stomach problems. Losec Omeprazole is a prescription-only medicine.

What is Losec Omeprazole?
The active ingredient in Losec Omeprazole, omeprazole, is a proton pump inhibitor, a type of medicine that decreases the production of stomach acid. It helps reduce irritation to the lining of the stomach, which in turn relieves stomach problems. Losec Omeprazole is a prescription-only medicine.
What is it used for?
Losec Omeprazole relieves stomach problems such as heartburn, acid reflux, nausea and other symptoms caused by irritation to the lining of the stomach or other stomach conditions. It is prescribed in the treatment of, among other things, acid reflux, peptic ulcers, oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus) and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (excessive secretion of stomach acid due to a tumour or enlargement of the pancreas). Losec Omeprazole can also be used as a stomach coater to prevent stomach problems that can occur as a side effect of certain drugs.
How to use Losec Omeprazole
Losec Omeprazole comes in enteric-coated pellets encased in capsules. The capsules should be swallowed whole, without chewing, with plenty of liquid. You can also break the capsules and disperse them in some water, yoghurt or fruit juice. The pellets in the mixture should not be chewed. The best time to take the capsules is in the morning and at the same time each day. They can be taken with or without food. If you are taking Losec Omeprazole twice daily, try to take the capsules in the morning and at night. The number of capsules to take and for how long will depend on the condition being treated. It is important to follow the instructions given by your doctor.
Dosage
Losec Omeprazole is available as 10-mg and 20-mg capsules. Unless otherwise advised by a doctor, the usual dose for most stomach conditions is:
- Adults: one 10-mg or 20-mg capsule, once a day.
Children may need to be given an adjusted dose. Read the package leaflet before use.
Side effects
All medicines can cause side effects, although some people may not experience any. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with Losec Omeprazole:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (stomach ache, flatulence, diarrhoea, nausea or constipation;
- Sleepiness, dizziness;
- Headache.
Most side effects will disappear within a few days once the body adjusts to the medicine. Consult a doctor if the side effects are persistent. For a complete list of possible side effects, see the package leaflet.
When not to use Losec Omeprazole
Losec Omeprazole is not suitable for everyone. This stomach acid inhibitor should not be used if:
- You are allergic to omeprazole or other proton pump inhibitors;
- You are allergic to any of the active ingredients in this medicine;
- You are taking the anti-HIV medicine nelvinafir.
Consult your doctor on the use of this medicine if you have health problems. It is also important that you tell the doctor what other medicines or nutritional supplements you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions with Losec Omeprazole.
Pregnancy/driving ability/alcohol
Losec Omeprazole should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women without consulting a doctor first. Losec Omeprazole may cause dizziness or sleepiness, especially at the start of treatment. Stay out of traffic if you experience these side effects. Alcohol irritates the stomach. Drinking alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine.