What is Omeprazole used for?
The primary use of omeprazole is to reduce stomach acidity.
Omeprazole can be used for the treatment of:
- gastric and duodenal ulcers (often associated with Helicobacter pylori infections) [1],
- symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) [1],
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome [1].
In drug stores, omeprazole is available with and without a prescription [1].
Does Omeprazole cause constipation?
Omeprazole can cause side effects, one of which is constipation [2]. However, it may not affect everyone.
The exact mechanism of how this happens was studied by scientists on rats and mice. Research showed that omeprazole can lead to inflammation and atrophy in the small intestine and delay gastric emptying [3, 4]. Mainly, the delayed emptying of the stomach is linked to constipation [5].
What are the side effects of omeprazole?
Omeprazole can cause a range of side effects. The occurrence of side effects depends on factors like age, other diseases you have, and current medications [1].
Among the most common are:
However, in some cases, omeprazole can also cause cough, dizziness, skin rash, weakness, and back pain [1].
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Long-term use of omeprazole can cause vitamin B12 deficiency and increase the risk of bone fractures [1].
The rare side effects of omeprazole include:
How to manage constipation?
Several strategies exist to manage constipation.
For immediate relief, you can use laxatives or stool softeners to manage an acute onset of constipation [10].
Increasing fiber consumption will help maintain your bowel movement. The daily intake recommendation is up to 50 grams of fiber [10].
Sources of fiber include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. You can also use fiber supplements. They can effectively and fast increase your fiber intake [10].
To prevent and manage constipation, you need to stay hydrated. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily. When you experience constipation, drinking warm beverages can help alleviate the pain [10].
Additionally, exercise is crucial for managing constipation. You can alleviate constipation with regular exercise that simulates bowel movement [11, 10].
Constipation you can also avoid by developing regular toilet habits [10].
Furthermore, stress reduction helps stop constipation from getting worse. You can meditate or do yoga to reduce stress [10].
Should I see a doctor when having constipation with omeprazole?
The most important thing when you have constipation while on omeprazole is to monitor your symptoms carefully.
You should make an appointment with your doctor when you have constipation for more than four days [10].
In case you have constipation with accompanying symptoms like intense abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, or rectal bleeding, you must seek medical attention immediately [10].