Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor which is a type of medicine that reduces the amount of acid your stomach produces.

It is used to treat gastric or duodenal ulcers, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, helicobacter pylori infection, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and acid related dyspepsia

Omeprazole reduces acid production in your stomach.

Acid is produced in your stomach to help with the digestion of food and to kill bacteria. The acid in the stomach is produced by a proton pump. Because of the acid environment in the stomach, the body produces a mucous barrier which lines the stomach and acts as a protective layer. If this barrier breaks down, the acid can damage the stomach wall and cause pain and discomfort in the stomach.

Some people may have leaky valve, which is the band at the top of the stomach and beneath the food pipe, which seals the stomach closed. When this leaks acid can escape from the stomach and irritate the foodpipe causing heartburn.

The recommended dose of Omeprazole is 20mg- 40mg a day.

However this can vary according to the severity of your condition and your medical history

It is best to check the product labelling and discuss your medication with your doctor.

Common side effects are tummy upset, bloating, excessive wind(flatulence), vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation and headaches

Avoid taking with alcohol

It is not known to be harmful in pregnancy.

It is present in breast milk but not known to be harmful