Losec

Uses
Losec (Omeprazole) is used to treat heartburn, GERD (gastro oesophageal reflux disease), Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, prevention and treatment of ulcers and other conditions related to excess volumes of stomach acid being produced. This medication is in a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. These medicines function by acting on cells in the stomach, causing a reduction in stomach acid. As a result of this, the conditions listed above can be effectively treated, and a reduced amount of stomach acid allows any damage which may have been done to the oesophagus to be healed.

Dosage and Administration
The required dosage depends on the condition that Losec (Omeprazole) is being used to treat. See your doctor for a full medical examination, so that a safe and effective dosage regimen can be prescribed to you. Adults treating a duodenal ulcer may be prescribed a dosage regimen which involves taking 20mg once per day, with the capsule taken right before eating. After 4 to 8 weeks of treatment, most patients will have healed. Gastric ulcers are treated with a similar dosage schedule, however, the patient is usually told to take 40mg per day.

If you are suffering from Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, please be aware that the doctor will need to analyze your medical history, and prescribe a dosage tailored for your unique individual needs. It is possible that you will be told to take 60mg per day as an initial dosage. The doctor may then decide to adjust the dosage and prescribe a maintenance dose which could be as high as 120mg taken 3 times per day in divided doses.

Dosage and Administration
When Losec (Omeprazole) tablets are taken, most patients should benefit from taking it. However, it is possible that side effects will occur, and in a small number of patients, these reactions may be serious. Some examples of side effects are listed here:

• Vertigo
• Dermatitis
• Dry mouth
• Loss of hair
• Candidiasis in the intestines or stomach

Tell your doctor about any side effects or symptoms of a reaction that you notice. Serious reactions are possible, and require the immediate attention of a doctor. Rare but severe side effects include bloody diarrhoea, thrombocytopenia, swelling of the breasts in male patients, low blood magnesium levels and aggressive behaviour. This is not a full list of reactions, and other side effects are also possible.

Precautions
The prescribing doctor must be informed by the patient if he or she has a history of liver disease.

Proton pump inhibitors (such as this drug) have been associated with an increased risk of bone fractures. Discuss this risk with your doctor before the commencement of treatment.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Losec (Omeprazole) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.