Common Questions about Prilosec (omeprazole)

How long does it take for Prilosec to work?

It can take 1-4 days for Prilosec to work and become effective. Prilosec is, therefore, not a medicine to be taken on-demand for immediate relief of heartburn symptoms. Some people may get relief of symptoms after 24 hours, while others may need up to 4 days for the full effect of Prilosec to kick in. 

Is Prilosec an antacid?

Prilosec is not an antacid. It is a proton pump inhibitor. Antacids neutralize stomach acid to provide fast relief from heartburn symptoms. Prilosec works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach makes. It requires a few days to become effective.

When to take Prilosec?

Prilosec should be taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, at least 60 minutes before a meal. You should swallow the Prilosec tablet or capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet. If you are using Prilosec granules, mix them with some water and swallow immediately.

Is Prilosec over the counter? 

Yes, Prilosec OTC is available over the counter without a prescription. It contains 20 mg of omeprazole and can be used for the relief of frequent heartburn symptoms. 

How often can you take Prilosec? 

You should take prescription Prilosec as directed by your physician. The usual dosage frequency is once a day, and treatment can last 4-8 weeks or longer. 

If you are taking Prilosec OTC, do not use it for more than 14 days. If your heartburn symptoms do not improve after 14 days of OTC Prilosec use or you have other symptoms along with heartburn, talk to your doctor because it could be something more serious that cannot be treated with over-the-counter Prilosec. Also, do not repeat a 14-day course of Prilosec OTC without consulting your doctor.

Can you take Prilosec while pregnant?

Prilosec should be taken with caution during pregnancy. It is a category C drug, meaning animal studies show some risk during pregnancy, but human studies are lacking or inadequate. Multiple studies have, however, demonstrated that proton pump inhibitors are safe for pregnant women.

Can you take Prilosec while breastfeeding?

When a nursing mother takes Prilosec, it passes to the infant through breast milk. Prilosec can be given to infants safely. Also, the amount that passes through breast milk is a fraction of the prescribed amount. However, you should exercise caution and talk to a healthcare provider before using Prilosec while breastfeeding.

What foods to avoid while taking Prilosec?

You should avoid well-known heartburn triggers such as chocolate, mint, tomatoes, garlic, raw onions, and citrus fruits. 

Can I drink coffee while on Prilosec?

Doctors advise limiting the number of caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and colas because they can irritate the esophagus and stomach and worsen heartburn symptoms. 

What dosages are available for Prilosec?

Prilosec is available in the following strengths: 20 mg. This drug is available in the following forms: capsule, tablet. Make sure to follow your prescription regimen according to your doctor’s instructions.

What is the price of Prilosec without insurance?

Without insurance, Prilosec can be as high as $437.85 (generic), but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $16.59 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not. 

What is the price of Prilosec with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on Prilosec—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for Lisinopril. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.