Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that is used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and other conditions caused by excess stomach acid. Omeprazole is a medicine that reduces the amount of acid in your stomach. It's used to treat conditions such as heartburn. You can buy some types from pharmacies and shops, but most types are only available with a prescription. Omeprazole, sold under the brand names Prilosec and Losec among others, is a medication used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, and Zollinger–Ellison syndrome. [1] Omeprazole is a medication that treats conditions that cause too much stomach acid like heartburn, stomach ulcers and reflux disease. It works by reducing the amount of acid in your stomach. 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 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). Here’s why long-term use can be risky, which side effects to watch for, and when to see a GP. Anyone who has purchased omeprazole will have noticed a clear NHS warning advising against using the drug for longer than two weeks due to its possible impact on the body. Omeprazole can be helpful, especially if acid reflux, ulcers or other stomach issues are affecting your day-to-day life. But like any medication, it works best when you’re taking it for the right reason, at the right dose and for the right amount of time. 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. Find patient medical information for Omeprazole (Prilosec, Prilosec OTC) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings.