Generic Name:

Omeprazole

Common Brands:

Prilosec, Prilosec OTC

Availability:

Prescription and over-the-counter

Therapeutic Class:

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)

Forms:

• Delayed-release tablet, delayed-release capsule, powder for suspension, granule packets
• Delayed-release tablet: 20 mg
• Delayed-release capsule: 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg
• Delayed-release granule packet: 2.5 mg, 10 mg
• Oral suspension: 2 mg/mL

Administration:

By mouth

Therapeutic Uses:

• Heartburn 
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Erosive esophagitis
• Gastric ulcer
• Duodenal ulcer
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a rare digestive disorder associated with excess stomach acid production)

Controlled Status:

Not a controlled substance

What is Prilosec (omeprazole)?

Prilosec (pri luh sek) is a proton pump inhibitor. It is an oral prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication that blocks the production of stomach acid. Prilosec is used to treat conditions in which there is excessive stomach acid, such as heartburn, GERD, and stomach ulcers. 

There may be other uses of Prilosec—your pharmacist or physician can give you further information.

Who can take Prilosec (omeprazole)?

Both adults and children can take Prilosec. The FDA approves Prilosec packets for use by children as young as one year of age. Please ask your child’s health care provider about the dose of Prilosec that is appropriate in children.