Q. Will omeprazole stop acid reflux?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Yes, omeprazole (the active ingredient in Prilosec OTC) is an effective treatment for symptoms of acid reflux.
Acid reflux is a condition where the content of your stomach flows back into your esophagus, resulting in heartburn and discomfort. The main cause of acid reflux is considered to be increased pressure inside the stomach due to reduced production of gastric juices or from eating high-fat foods or drinking too much alcohol. This increase in pressure causes acidic contents to back up into the lower part of your esophagus and irritate the lining, resulting in unpleasant symptoms such as burning sensation, sore throat ,chest pain , nausea and coughing.
Omeprazole has been proven to reduce many common symptoms associated with acid reflux. It works by decreasing the amount of gastric acids produced by reducing their secretion rate through an enzyme called H+/K+ ATPase which helps control how quickly they are released into your stomach's lumen (space). Additionally, it also blocks certain receptors found on cells located in your stomach that stimulate excessive gastric juice production when activated by hormones like histamine or cholinergic drugs; this helps further reduce acid levels and prevent damage caused by over-acidification.
Since omeprazole suppresses both glands that produce digestive juices within your stomach it can provide significant relief for those suffering from heartburn, regurgitation or any other form of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Furthermore because it works directly on these glands rather than neutralizing existing acids like antacids do there will be minimal side effects associated with its use during long term therapy sessions such as reduced absorption rates for certain medications like iron supplements so you won't experience any issues related to nutrient deficiencies while usingthis medication regularly .
Overall clinic studies have shown excellent results when using Omeprazole as a treatment course against Acid Reflux; with most showing satisfactory relief after 4 weeks while some experienced symptom free periods lasting up to 8 weeks following proper dosage guidelines set out by their health care practitioner not only does this drug offer safe symptom relief but can also help improve overall quality life patients living GERD thanks its convenience form designed make taking medication easier comfort those who may experience difficultly swallowing pills capsules regular basis .