What is Omeprazole?

Answer:
Omeprazole, also known as Prilosec, is

a drug used to treat gastroesophegal disorders like Acid Reflux Disease.

Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor, meaning it acts by shutting down the secretion of gastric acids. It is one of the most-prescribed drugs internationally and is available over the counter in some countries. Omeprazole is marketed by AstraZeneca in the United States and was first marketed in 1989. AstraZeneca marketed and produced Nexium as a replacement after facing the expiration of the patent and competition from generic manufacturers of the drug.

Omeprazole's side effects include headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, nausea, sleep deprivation, and trouble awakening. Patients taking this drug may be at greater risk of heart attack or stroke.

Omeprazole is absorbed in the small intestine in 3 to 6 hours and is excreted as metabolites in the urine.