Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that is used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and other conditions caused by excess stomach acid. Nonprescription (over-the-counter) omeprazole is used to treat frequent heartburn (heartburn that occurs at least 2 or more days a week) in adults. Omeprazole is in a class of medications called proton-pump inhibitors. It works by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach. Omeprazole stops acid production at the source, preventing the acid that causes heartburn symptoms for relief that lasts all day and night. This heartburn medicine is a 14-day course of treatment that should be taken once every 24 hours for 14 days to treat frequent heartburn flare-ups. Omeprazole is used to treat certain conditions where there is too much acid in the stomach. It is used to treat gastric and duodenal ulcers, erosive esophagitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). What is this medication? OMEPRAZOLE (oh ME pray zol) is used to treat heartburn, stomach ulcers, reflux disease, or other conditions that cause too much stomach acid. It works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach. It belongs to a group of medications called PPIs. Find patient medical information for Omeprazole (Prilosec, Prilosec OTC) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Omeprazole, approved by the FDA, is available as a prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drug used as a treatment for frequent heartburn. Learn about side effects, drug interactions, dosages, warnings, and more. Omeprazole delayed-release capsules, USP 10 mg are available for oral administration as hard gelatin capsules with a pink opaque body and a reddish brown opaque cap. Omeprazole (Prilosec) is a proton pump inhibitor that reduces stomach acid. It’s available both over the counter and with a prescription. Common omeprazole side effects include headaches and stomach-related side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Summary BBC doctor Dr Punam Krishan has issued a warning for anyone taking omeprazole or similar acid reflux medications for too long. While PPIs like omeprazole can effectively manage heartburn and indigestion, Dr Krishan explained that long-term use may lead to more problems.