Omeprazole
Side effects of Omeprazole
Elaine Godley
Last Update a year ago
What Is Omeprazole?
Omeprazole is a medication classified as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach. However, the cause of most heartburn and stomach/gut health challenges is actually insufficient acid - contrary to what the medics tell us.
Omeprazole is commonly over used to treat conditions such as:
· Gastric and duodenal ulcers
· Erosive esophagitis
· Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
· Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a rare condition with excessive stomach acid)
· Dyspepsia (indigestion)
· Prevention of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in seriously ill patients
. Heartburn
It is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, in various forms such as capsules, tablets, and powder for suspension[1].
Side Effects of Omeprazole
Common side effects (more than 1 in 100 people)[2][3]:
· Headache
· Stomach pain (abdominal pain)
· Nausea (feeling sick)
· Vomiting
· Diarrhea
· Gas
Less common but serious side effects:
· Bone fractures (especially with long-term use)
· Low magnesium levels (can cause tiredness, confusion, dizziness, muscle twitches, irregular heartbeat)
· Vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use)
· Gut infections
· Liver problems (yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, fatigue)
· Severe or persistent diarrhea (possible sign of an inflamed bowel)
· Rare allergic reactions (anaphylaxis): swelling of lips, mouth, throat, difficulty breathing, skin rash, confusion, fainting[3]
Possible increased risk (with long-term use):
· Slightly increased risk of stomach cancer (evidence is not conclusive)[3]
Natural Remedies and Alternatives
If you are seeking natural remedies for acid reflux, heartburn, or mild stomach acid issues, several options may help. However, always consult your healthcare provider before stopping prescribed medication or starting new remedies.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes[4][5]:
· Eat high-fiber foods (whole grains, root vegetables, green vegetables)
· Choose alkaline foods (bananas, melons, cauliflower, fennel, nuts)
· Eat watery foods (celery, cucumber, lettuce, watermelon, broth-based soups)
· Maintain a healthy weight
· Avoid trigger foods (spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol)
· Elevate the head of your bed
· Quit smoking
Natural Remedies and Supplements[4][5][6]:
· Ginger: Anti-inflammatory, can be consumed as tea or chewed raw
· Tulsi (holy basil) leaves: Soothe the stomach lining and reduce acid
· Aloe vera juice: May help soothe the digestive tract
· Apple cider vinegar: Some people find relief by mixing a small amount with water; use with caution, as it is acidic
· Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate): Neutralizes stomach acid; dissolve 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in water for short-term relief (not for long-term use due to high sodium content)
· Ajwain seeds: Traditional remedy for indigestion and acidity
. HCL: Hydrochloric acid supplementation to increase acid which aids digestion (see other articles linked below)
Other Simple Remedies
· Lemon water with honey (may have an alkalizing effect)
· Herbal teas (such as ginger or chamomile)
“Just because they are natural does not mean they are safe for you, so check with your healthcare provider before adding or subtracting anything from your regimen.”[5]
Always consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your treatment plan, especially if you have ongoing or severe symptoms.
⁂
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/omeprazole-oral-route/description/drg-20066836
2. https://www.goodrx.com/omeprazole/common-side-effects
3. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/omeprazole/side-effects-of-omeprazole/
4. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/gerd-diet-foods-that-help-with-acid-reflux-heartburn
Elaine is a multi award winning Master Health Mentor and Coach, stage 4 cancer thriver who also beat an 'incurable' rare kidney disease she was born with.