Losec
Generic Name
Omeprazole
Manufacturer
AstraZeneca
Country
Sweden / United Kingdom
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| losek 20 mg capsule | ৳ 4.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Losec 20 mg capsule contains Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor used to reduce stomach acid production. It is prescribed for conditions like heartburn, acid reflux, stomach ulcers, and certain esophageal problems.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 20 mg once daily before breakfast. For severe conditions, dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily. For H. pylori eradication, 20 mg twice daily with antibiotics for 7-14 days.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for elderly patients, but caution is advised in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is necessary for patients with impaired renal function.
How to Take
Take the capsule whole with a glass of water, usually in the morning before a meal. Do not chew or crush the capsule.
Mechanism of Action
Omeprazole, a substituted benzimidazole, is a proton pump inhibitor. It acts by irreversibly blocking the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system (the proton pump) found on the secretory surface of the gastric parietal cells, thereby reducing both basal and stimulated gastric acid secretion.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Acid secretion inhibition occurs within 1 hour, with maximal effect within 2 hours. Full acid suppression achieved after 4 days of daily dosing.
Excretion
Approximately 80% of metabolites are excreted in the urine and the remainder in the feces.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 0.5 to 1 hour, but the duration of acid suppression is much longer due to irreversible binding to the proton pump.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, but bioavailability is low (30-40%) due to extensive first-pass metabolism. Bioavailability increases with repeated dosing.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, specifically CYP2C19 and CYP3A4. Less than 0.1% of the dose is excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to omeprazole, substituted benzimidazoles, or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with nelfinavir (an antiretroviral drug).
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
Increased systemic exposure to digoxin has been reported, requiring monitoring of digoxin levels.
Tacrolimus
Increased serum concentrations of tacrolimus have been reported; monitor tacrolimus concentrations.
Clopidogrel
Omeprazole may reduce the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel by inhibiting its conversion to active metabolite, increasing cardiovascular risk. Concomitant use should be avoided.
Methotrexate
Possible increase in methotrexate levels, especially with high doses. Temporary withdrawal of omeprazole may be considered.
Nelfinavir, Atazanavir
Omeprazole can significantly reduce the plasma levels of these antiretrovirals, potentially leading to loss of virological response. Concomitant use is contraindicated for nelfinavir and not recommended for atazanavir.
Warfarin, Phenytoin, Diazepam
Omeprazole may prolong the elimination of these drugs, requiring dose adjustment and monitoring.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose are generally mild and self-limiting, including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and headache. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Omeprazole is excreted in human breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to omeprazole, substituted benzimidazoles, or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with nelfinavir (an antiretroviral drug).
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
Increased systemic exposure to digoxin has been reported, requiring monitoring of digoxin levels.
Tacrolimus
Increased serum concentrations of tacrolimus have been reported; monitor tacrolimus concentrations.
Clopidogrel
Omeprazole may reduce the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel by inhibiting its conversion to active metabolite, increasing cardiovascular risk. Concomitant use should be avoided.
Methotrexate
Possible increase in methotrexate levels, especially with high doses. Temporary withdrawal of omeprazole may be considered.
Nelfinavir, Atazanavir
Omeprazole can significantly reduce the plasma levels of these antiretrovirals, potentially leading to loss of virological response. Concomitant use is contraindicated for nelfinavir and not recommended for atazanavir.
Warfarin, Phenytoin, Diazepam
Omeprazole may prolong the elimination of these drugs, requiring dose adjustment and monitoring.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose are generally mild and self-limiting, including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and headache. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Omeprazole is excreted in human breast milk; use with caution during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from the date of manufacture, check product packaging for exact date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals worldwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Patent expired, many generic versions available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Omeprazole has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for various acid-related disorders. Ongoing research continues to explore long-term effects and new indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Magnesium levels (for long-term use, especially with diuretics)
- Liver function tests (if signs of liver impairment develop)
- Vitamin B12 levels (for prolonged use, as PPIs can impair absorption)
- Bone mineral density (for very long-term use, due to increased fracture risk)
Doctor Notes
- Confirm diagnosis before initiating PPI therapy, especially to rule out malignancy in cases of dyspepsia or suspected ulcer.
- Prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
- Consider magnesium and vitamin B12 monitoring for patients on long-term therapy (>1 year).
- Counsel patients on lifestyle modifications to complement drug therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Swallow the capsule whole; do not chew, crush, or open it.
- Take it before a meal, usually in the morning.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Omeprazole may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid trigger foods (e.g., spicy, fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, acidic foods) that worsen acid reflux.
- Elevate the head of your bed to help reduce nighttime reflux symptoms.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can irritate the stomach lining.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.