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    General Health
    1234 · 20 min read

    Can you take Omeprazole with Zantac?

    Both Omeprazole and Zantac are prescribed for the treatment of ulcers. Naturally, you may be wondering whether you can take both of these medications together at the same time. In short, there are no known conflicts between these two medicines. They are, however, both prescription-only medications - so you will have the opportunity to discuss how Omeprazole and Zantac complement each other if your doctor deems the combination appropriate for you.

    What happens if you take Omeprazole with Zantac?

    Both of these drugs work to treat conditions such as ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) which is caused by stomach acid. They accomplish this in different ways, one as a proton-pump inhibitor and the other as an H2-blocker. These methods are not contrary to each other and can be used simultaneously if your doctor deems it the proper course of action to treat your condition.

    Omeprazole (Prilosec) and Zantac compared

    How do each of these drugs work to treat ulcers and GERD? Find out how they compare to each other below.

    How does Omeprazole work to reduce stomach acid?

    Omeprazole works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces. Omeprazole is a "proton pump inhibitor". In layman's terms, this means that a particular enzyme that is necessary to produce stomach acid is prevented from activating. The end result is having less acid in your stomach.

    Video: What is Omeprazole?

    How does Zantac work to reduce stomach acid?

    Zantac has a different method of accomplishing the same thing as Omeprazole. Zantac (brand name), also called ranitidine (generic), works by preventing the production of acid-producing cells in the stomach. It accomplishes this in a different way than Omeprazole does, namely, it blocks histamine-2. For this reason, Ranitidine is also called an "H2 blocker".

    Side effect similarities between Omeprazole and Zantac

    All prescription medications have some type of potential side effects. Both Omeprazole and Zantac share similar side effects, which are listed below. Not everyone will experience these side effects. If you experience any of the following side-effects in a serious way, contact your doctor immediately.

    Similarities

    The similarities between side-effects between Omeprazole and Zantac are:

    • constipation

    • diarrhoea

    • headache

    • nausea

    • vomiting

    Differences

    Following are differences in side-effects between Omeprazole and Zantac.

    People who take omeprazole can sometimes experience include rash and dizziness. These two side-effects are generally not experienced by those who take Zantac. If you experience serious side effects involving rash and dizziness, contact your doctor immediately.

    People who take Zantac will sometimes experience fatigue and insomnia. People who take Omeprazole do not typically experience fatigue and insomnia. If you are experiencing these side-effects in a serious manner, contact your doctor immediately.

    Which is more effective, Omeprazole or Zantac?

    Omeprazole (a proton pump inhibitor, or PPI) is very effective in shutting down acid production of the stomach. PPIs are most effective during the day. They are also extremely effective after meals. For this reason, it is recommended that you take Omeprazole immediately prior to meals. PPIs are not, however, particularly effective at night.

    Zantac and other H2-receptor-blockers, on the other hand, are very effective at night. A good time to take Zantac is just before bed. These stomach-acid reduction medications both serve the purpose of reducing stomach acid, in slightly different ways. Take this into consideration when trying to find the best ulcer or GERD medication.

    What is Omeprazole?

    Omeprazole is the generic medication also sold under the brand name Losec, used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease, and Zollinger–Ellison syndrome. It is used to prevent upper gastrointestinal bleeding in people who are at high risk of that condition.

    What is Zantac?

    Zantac, also sold under its generic name Ranitidine, is a medication that decreases stomach acid production. It is commonly used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and Zollinger–Ellison syndrome. There is also evidence it can benefit people suffering from hives.

    Other acid reflux medications

    Are you suffering from acid reflux? Consider all of your options for treatment. Following is a list of the various acid reflux medications we have to offer, along with brief descriptions.

    • Rennie Peppermint

      Rennie Peppermint neutralises stomach acid and turns it into water and other natural substances. It treats acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion.

    • Lansoprazole

      Lansoprazole relieves heartburn and acid reflux. It helps heal acid damage to the stomach. It prevents stomach pain and discomfort.

    • Esomeprazole

      Esomeprazole effectively treats acid reflux. It is easily tolerated by people who have problems with stomach acid.

    • Pantoprazole

      Pantoprazole prevents acid reflux. It protects against stomach acid. It is a high-strength tablet.

    • Nexium

      Nexium is classed as a proton pump inhibitor. It reduces symptoms of acid reflux. It also helps to prevent cancer of the oesophagus.

    • Pepto-Bismol

      Pepto-Bismol comes in chewable tablet form. It works quickly to relieve stomach acid problems and soothes a number of stomach complaints

    Summary

    In summary, Omeprazole and Zantac can both be taken together simultaneously if your doctor is willing to prescribe this for your condition. Omeprazole works well during the daytime, taken immediately prior to meals. Zantac works better in the evening, taken immediately before you go to sleep. Zantac is a good medication for people who suffer heartburn and other issues that prevent them from sleeping.

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