prilosec vs prevacid

  Any studies using prilosec vs. prevacid long term for control of gastric acid? Which would be the better choice?
Dear Mary,
Both omeperazole (Prilosec) and lansoprazole (Prevacid) belong to the same class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). They are potent inhibitors of acid secretion. Omeperazole and lansoprazole work by the same mechanism and only differ in chemical structure. Therefore, when one takes equivalent doses of either drug one should obtain the same effect. On the other hand, in clinical practice, there are some patients who for some unclear reason, symptomatically respond to one drug better than the other. Most patients tolerate either drug well with minimal side effects. Omeperazole was the first proton pump inhibitor developed, has been on the market longer, has been used in more research studies and is less expensive. I hope you find this information helpful.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you wish to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians' Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.
HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: omeperazole, lansoprazole

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