drug use

[wkd2691]

DO YOU NEED TO TAKE FOOD WITH OMEPRAZOLE?

[Flycaster305]

When my GERD was extreme, my doctor had me taking it twice a day, and suggested I take it when I heard the pots and pans come out for breakfast and dinner, as that is when I ate meals, other than a light snack.  You have asked a question often asked, so I looked up the directives:

"Prescription omeprazole comes as a delayed-release capsule, and packets of delayed-release (long-acting) granules for suspension (to be mixed with liquid) to take by mouth. Nonprescription (over-the-counter) omeprazole comes as a delayed-release capsule or tablet to take by mouth. The delayed-release capsules and the granules should be taken at least 1 hour before a meal. They are usually taken once a day before a meal but may be taken twice a day when used with other medications to eliminate H. pylori, or up to three times a day when used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid. The nonprescription delayed-release tablets or capsules are usually taken once a day in the morning at least 1 hour before eating for 14 days in a row. Additional 14-day treatments may be repeated once every 4 months if needed. To help you remember to take omeprazole, take it at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label or the package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take omeprazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often or for a longer period of time than prescribed by your doctor or stated on the package. Tell your doctor if you have taken nonprescription omeprazole for a longer period of time than stated on the package."

As Selma advises, talk to your doctor.  GERD is caused from a number of conditions, and each condition has different medication needs.  Keep us informed.

[selmaS]

  Hi...read the directions on the bottle or RX given u by ur Dr...many times a GERD med will suggest 10 to 60 mins b4 u eat to swallow the pill with a full glass of water.

I have also had my Dr RX  the med to be taken just b4 bed to help with the nighttime issues...again check with ur Dr, or instructions on the med itself.