Meprasil Capsule 20mg (Omeprazole) x20

Meprasil Capsule contains 20mg of Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that effectively reduces stomach acid production. This medication treats acid-related disorders by blocking the enzyme system responsible for acid secretion in the stomach.

Uses

Meprasil Capsule treats conditions caused by excess stomach acid including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, erosive esophagitis, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It’s also used for prevention of NSAID-induced ulcers and as part of combination therapy for H. pylori infection eradication.

Benefits

• Provides effective relief from heartburn and acid reflux
• Heals damaged esophageal tissue from acid exposure
• Reduces risk of peptic ulcer complications like bleeding
• Relieves symptoms of acid-related disorders
• Supports healing of gastric and duodenal ulcers
• Prevents ulcer formation in patients taking NSAIDs
• Helps eradicate H. pylori when used in combination therapy
• Offers 24-hour acid control with once-daily dosing
• Improves quality of life for chronic GERD patients

How It Works

Omeprazole irreversibly inhibits the hydrogen-potassium ATPase enzyme system (the proton pump) in gastric parietal cells. This action blocks the final step of acid production, reducing gastric acidity regardless of the stimulus. With decreased acid production, damaged tissues can heal and symptoms resolve.

Dosage

Take Meprasil Capsule before meals, preferably in the morning. Swallow whole with water; do not crush or chew capsules.

Duration of Action

Meprasil begins reducing acid production within 1 hour of administration. Maximum acid suppression occurs within 2 days of regular use. A single dose provides acid suppression for 24 hours, allowing once-daily dosing. Full therapeutic effect for ulcer healing typically requires 1-2 weeks of continuous treatment.

Side Effects

Most patients tolerate Meprasil well. Common side effects include headache, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and flatulence. Less frequent effects include dizziness, skin rash, or vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use. These effects are typically mild and transient.

Warning

Long-term use (>1 year) may increase risk of bone fractures, magnesium deficiency, or C. difficile infection. Prolonged use may mask symptoms of gastric cancer. Avoid abrupt discontinuation after long-term therapy. Consult doctor if experiencing severe diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, or persistent abdominal pain.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Use during pregnancy only when clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Limited data suggests no increased risk of birth defects, but caution is advised. Omeprazole is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Consult healthcare provider before use while breastfeeding.

Interaction

• May reduce effectiveness of medications requiring stomach acid for absorption
• Could increase blood levels of diazepam, phenytoin, and warfarin
• Potential interaction with clopidogrel, reducing its effectiveness
• May alter absorption of certain antifungal medications
• Possible increased risk with methotrexate co-administration

Precaution

Use with caution in patients with liver disease as metabolism may be slowed. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to effects. May cause false positive results in certain medical tests. If symptoms persist or worsen after 2 weeks of treatment, consult healthcare provider for re-evaluation.

Important Information

Meprasil provides symptomatic relief but does not address underlying causes of acid production. Take exactly as prescribed and complete full course of treatment even if symptoms improve. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children. Each package contains 20 capsules; follow prescription instructions for proper usage and refills.