Omefast-20 Capsules (Omeprazole) x14

Omefast-20 Capsules contain Omeprazole 20mg, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid production. This medication effectively treats various gastric conditions by blocking the enzyme responsible for acid secretion, providing relief from symptoms associated with GERD, peptic ulcers, and other acid-related disorders.

Uses

Omefast-20 Capsules treat acid-related digestive disorders including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), duodenal and gastric ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and erosive esophagitis. They’re also used for maintenance therapy to prevent recurrence of healed ulcers and in combination therapy for H. pylori eradication.

Benefits

• Effectively reduces stomach acid production
• Relieves heartburn, regurgitation, and gastric pain
• Promotes healing of erosive esophagitis and peptic ulcers
• Helps maintain remission in GERD patients
• Prevents ulcer recurrence when used as maintenance therapy
• Reduces risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in at-risk patients
• Convenient once-daily dosing improves patient compliance
• Works rapidly to alleviate acid-related symptoms
• Well-tolerated by most patients

How It Works

Omeprazole acts by irreversibly blocking the hydrogen/potassium adenosine triphosphatase enzyme system (H+/K+ ATPase) in gastric parietal cells. This “proton pump” inhibition prevents the final step of acid production, reducing stomach acid levels regardless of stimuli. This creates a less acidic environment that promotes healing and symptom relief.

Dosage

Take Omefast-20 before meals, preferably in the morning. Swallow capsules whole with water; do not crush or chew.

Duration of Action

Omefast-20 begins reducing acid production within 1 hour of administration. Maximum acid suppression occurs within 2 hours and lasts approximately 24 hours due to irreversible enzyme inhibition. Full therapeutic effect may take 1-4 days of regular use. Acid secretion returns to normal within 3-5 days after discontinuation.

Side Effects

Most patients tolerate Omefast-20 well. Common side effects include headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and constipation. Less common effects include dizziness, skin rash, and flatulence. These typically resolve without intervention. Long-term use may occasionally be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, increased fracture risk, or hypomagnesemia.

Warning

Long-term use of Omefast-20 may increase risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, bone fractures, and kidney inflammation. May mask symptoms of gastric malignancy. Patients experiencing alarm symptoms (unintentional weight loss, persistent vomiting, difficulty swallowing) should undergo further evaluation. Discontinue use and seek medical attention for severe allergic reactions.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Omefast-20 should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Studies suggest omeprazole is present in breast milk at low levels. Benefits of treatment should be weighed against potential risks for breastfeeding women. Consult healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Interaction

• May reduce effectiveness of clopidogrel by inhibiting its conversion
• Potential increased risk of bleeding when used with warfarin
• May increase levels of diazepam, phenytoin, and certain antifungals
• Reduced absorption of iron, calcium, and some antiretrovirals
• Possible interaction with methotrexate, tacrolimus, and erlotinib

Precaution

Patients with liver disease may require dose adjustment. Long-term therapy increases risk of Clostridium difficile infection. Regular monitoring is advised for prolonged use. May increase risk of bone fractures, especially at high doses or for longer than one year. Asian populations may require lower doses due to slower metabolism of omeprazole.

Important Information

Take Omefast-20 exactly as prescribed. Swallow capsules whole; do not crush or chew. Maximum benefit may require several days of treatment. Inform healthcare providers about all medications you’re taking. Discontinue use and contact your doctor if symptoms worsen or persist after 14 days. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.