omeprazole prior to lab tests

[marky20q]

I'm a male, 32 yo and I'm about to undergo cholesterol, triglyceride and hdl tests. I forgot to mention to my physician that I'm currently taking omeprazole. I just learned that it may affect the tests, how long should I stop taking this drug before I undergo the lab tests?

[Flycaster305]

I don't take any medications for 24 hours before being tested for cholesterol, etc.  Prilosec exits the body rather quickly, and from what I read has very little impact on the body after just a few hours.  

[Red_Star]

From what i've read, prilosec (omeprazole) may lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting the amounts of cholesterol producing enzymes. How long should you stop taking this drug? Maybe a few months to see a difference perhaps.

When acid blockers were introduced onto the market, it was recommended not be taken for more than 6 weeks.  A very good reason for that! Not to mention insufficient stomach acid is by far a more common cause of acid reflux.

"There are four primary consequences of acid stopping drugs:

Increased bacterial overgrowth
Impaired nutrient absorption
Decreased resistance to infection
Increased risk of cancer and other diseases"

To read more: How your antacid drug is making you sick (Part A) by Chris Kresser