Side effects of Omeprazole

Omeprozole is generally well tolerated. Even when high doses are administered and the duration of therapy is long, side effects rarely occur. 1-2% of patients complain of gastrointestinal complaints.

As a rule, this is due to an altered bacterial colonization of the gastrointestinal tract, because the stomach acid normally ensures that most bacteria are killed (e.g. lactobacilli, streptococci). Headaches or dizziness occur even more rarely. Some patients also complain of tiredness or itching.

In rare cases, high-dose infusion therapy, as may be indicated for acute gastric bleeding, leads to visual disturbances, as proton pumps are also found in the eye. It must also be noted that certain enzymes, which are responsible for the digestion of proteins in the stomach, can only work optimally if the pH value is correct and there is sufficient hydrochloric acid. This is why digestive disorders can also occur, especially in the digestion of proteins.

However, since digestion is generally mainly localized in the small intestine and the stomach is rather small, digestive disorders affecting the digestion of proteins in the stomach are not often observed when omeprazole is used alone. After discontinuing omeprazole, no direct side effects are to be feared and the drug does not need to be discontinued. However, if the effect of omeprazole is discontinued, this may still have consequences.

Previously relieved symptoms such as upper abdominal pain or acidic belching may reappear after discontinuation. This can be counteracted by avoiding stomach-irritating stimulants such as coffee, alcohol and chocolate and by not smoking. Acid blockers such as omeprazole are often taken as a preventive measure to reduce the side effects of other medications.

If, for example, omeprazole is discontinued while taking painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac, the risk of side effects such as a stomach ulcer increases. So-called “stomach protection” drugs are often prescribed for months or years and taken by patients. Although this is also indicated in many cases, long-term medication also increases the risk of sometimes serious side effects.

On the one hand, the intake of omeprazole inhibits the absorption of calcium in the intestine, so that the risk of bone fractures increases the longer the medication is taken. This is especially true for older patients with already existing bone loss (osteoporosis). In addition, the risk of bacterial pneumonia increases if the drug is taken over a long period of time. Another possible consequence of long-term use is inflammation of the kidneys. However, the side effects mentioned above for long-term medication with omeprazole depend very much on the dosage.In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of long-term medication must always be weighed up.