Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions about Heartburn
What is the difference between heartburn and frequent heartburn?
Is Prilosec OTC Right for Me?
Is prescription Prilosec the same as Prilosec OTC?
Is Prilosec OTC strong enough?
Will Prilosec OTC allow me to eat my favorite foods?
Does Prilosec OTC interact negatively with other drugs?
Taking Prilosec OTC
How often do I take Prilosec OTC?
General Questions about Heartburn
What is heartburn?
Heartburn occurs when stomach acids reflux, or flow up, into the esophagus. Find out more about heartburn symptoms.
What is the difference between heartburn and frequent heartburn?
Frequent heartburn is defined as heartburn occurring two or more days a week. Prilosec OTC is formulated for frequent heartburn. Find out more about frequent heartburn.
What is GERD?
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is chronic, persistent heartburn. Other signs of GERD include: regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, coughing, hoarseness and a lump feeling in your throat. If you think you may have GERD, please, talk to your doctor. See other possible related conditions.
Is Prilosec OTC right for me?
What does “OTC” stand for?
“OTC” stands for “over the counter.” Prescription-strength Prilosec became available over the counter in 2003. Find out more about our history.
Is prescription Prilosec the same as Prilosec OTC?
They have the same active ingredient, omeprazole. Prescription-strength Prilosec became available over the counter in 2003. Find out more about our history or learn how over-the-counter medications like Prilosec OTC can help you save with Medicare Part D.
How does Prilosec OTC work?
Prilosec OTC blocks heartburn before it begins.* It works by shutting down many of the pumps in your stomach that produce excess acid. Find out more about how it works.
Is Prilosec OTC strong enough?
Prilosec OTC is in the strongest class of heartburn medicines available over the counter. It blocks heartburn before it begins with one pill a day for 14 days.* Find out more about our proven strength.
Will Prilosec OTC allow me to eat my favorite foods?
Yes. Prilosec OTC blocks heartburn before it begins so you can enjoy the foods you love.* Find out more about how it works.
Are there any side effects?
Although side effects from Prilosec OTC are not common, minor effects can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: headache, diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach, cough, dizziness, rash, cold symptoms.
Does Prilosec OTC interact negatively with other drugs?
It’s possible. Before taking Prilosec OTC, let your health care provider know if you are taking any of the following: warfarin (blood-thinning medicine), prescription antifungal or anti-yeast medicines, diazepam (anxiety medicine), digoxin (heart medicine).
Taking Prilosec OTC
How often do I take Prilosec OTC?
Prilosec OTC blocks heartburn before it begins with one pill a day for 14 days.* Take it in the morning before your first meal.
How long can I take Prilosec OTC?
Prilosec OTC is a 14-day regimen that is indicated for three courses per year. While it is safe to treat frequent heartburn regularly with Prilosec OTC, it is strong enough to mask more serious conditions. If you want to take more than the three indicated courses, first consult your doctor.
What if I miss a day of treatment?
If you miss a day, just continue your treatment on the next day.
*It’s possible with Prilosec OTC. Use as directed for 14 days for treating frequent heartburn. Not for immediate relief.
