Omeprazole is one of the most commonly prescribed tablets in the UK, with the most recent figures showing 73 million NHS prescriptions for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), like Omeprazole, were dispensed in England between 2022-23. Additional data also shows PPI use affects around 15% of the population.
PPIs are drugs that decrease stomach acid production. They work by stopping the proton pumps, enzymes located in the stomach wall that produce acid. This helps issues such as acid reflux and heartburn.
Other medical conditions treated by PPIs include indigestion, healing of stomach ulcers, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It can also be used, alongside antibiotics, to treat the stomach infection Helicobacter pylori.
Common PPIs include Omeprazole (Prilosec), Esomeprazole (Nexium), Lansoprazole (Prevacid), Pantoprazole (Protonix), and Rabeprazole (AcipHex). Although they are effective, particularly for extended treatment periods, there are potential risks associated with long-term use.
