Omeprazole

What is omeprazole?

Omeprazole (brand names Gastrogard®, Losec®, and Prilosec®) is a proton-pump inhibitor (a type of acid reducer) used in the treatment of ulcers occurring in the stomach and upper part of the small intestine in dogs and cats. It is also used to treat or prevent gastric erosions caused by drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

The medication works by lowering the amount of acid made in the stomach. Omeprazole is also used to treat Helicobacter infections and acute gastritis in dogs. This medication is also used off-label to treat gastroenteritis in ferrets.

The use of omeprazole in dogs, cats, and ferrets is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. 

“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is omeprazole given?

• Omeprazole is available as a tablet and capsule. It may also be compounded into other forms by a compounding pharmacy.
• Omeprazole should be given by mouth on an empty stomach, before the first meal of the day.
• If vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food.
• DO NOT crush the tablets or capsules. Do not allow your pet to chew this medication. If you are having difficulty administering this medication, contact your veterinary health team for advice.
• Follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian, as different doses are prescribed for different conditions.
• Give the medication for the length of time your veterinarian has recommended. Do not stop giving the medication to your pet without first speaking with your veterinarian.

This medication should take effect within one to two days, and improvements in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once. It is very important to give the medication for the length of time your veterinarian has recommended. Do not stop giving the medication to your pet without first speaking with your veterinarian.

Are there any potential side effects?

Omeprazole may cause the following side effects. If these effects worsen, become severe, or continue, contact your veterinarian:

• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Gas
• Diarrhea

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE omeprazole in:

• Pets that are allergic to it or similar drugs

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets with liver or kidney disease
• Pets that are pregnant or nursing

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used with caution when given with omeprazole, including:

• Benzodiazepines
• Certain antibiotics
• Clopidogrel
• Cyclosporine
• Diuretics
• Levothyroxine
• Phenobarbital

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store omeprazole?

• Store omeprazole tablets and capsules in a tightly sealed container, protected from light, at temperatures below 86°F (30°C).
• Keep the container out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

Overdoses of omeprazole are not usually serious. If you suspect an overdose and your pet is experiencing an adverse reaction, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.