Omeprazole is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the UK, but the NHS has issued a warning over the use of the heartburn and indigestion treatment
Charlotte Smith Senior Lifestyle Content Editor and Emma O’Neill
16:47, 27 Sep 2025
(Image: Getty)
Omeprazole is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the UK, with recent figures showing that 73 million NHS prescriptions for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as Omeprazole, were issued across England in 2022-23.
Separate data suggests that approximately 15% of the population depends on PPI treatment.
PPIs are drugs that decrease the production of stomach acid. They work by inhibiting the proton pumps, enzymes located in the stomach lining that produce acid, thus easing issues like acid reflux and heartburn.
Other health problems managed by PPIs include indigestion, recovery from stomach ulcers, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The medication can also be used alongside antibiotics to fight the stomach bug Helicobacter pylori.
Commonly used PPIs include Omeprazole (Prilosec), Esomeprazole (Nexium), Lansoprazole (Prevacid), Pantoprazole (Protonix), and Rabeprazole (AcipHex). While they are effective, particularly for long-term treatment courses, there are potential risks associated with prolonged use, according to the Mirror, reports the Daily Record.
The NHS has issued a warning about this on its website, advising: “Do not take omeprazole for longer than two weeks if you bought it without a prescription. See a GP if your symptoms get worse or do not get better.”
Long-term use of PPIs has been associated with an increased risk of a bacterial infection known as Clostridioides difficile. This bacterium can cause an infection in the intestines, leading to diarrhoea and other symptoms such as abdominal pain and fever.
Clostridioides difficile typically causes illness when antibiotics disrupt the balance of normal gut bacteria, allowing it to grow and produce toxins. In most individuals, Clostridioides difficile coexists harmlessly with other bacteria in the intestines.
However, when antibiotics wipe out the beneficial bacteria, they can rapidly multiply.
The toxins produced irritate the colon, resulting in infection symptoms. Clostridioides difficile can be triggered by medication disrupting the natural gut flora.
It can also spread through spores that survive on contaminated surfaces.
It primarily affects at-risk groups, including the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
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Here’s how to take omeprazole:.
Omeprazole usually comes in tablet, capsule, and liquid form for ingestion. Some tablets can be dissolved in water.
The dosage and length of treatment depend on the specific type of omeprazole you are using and the reason for its use. It is generally taken once or twice daily.
Some people may only need it for a few days, whilst others might require ongoing use for several weeks, months, or even years. Always check the packaging or leaflet that accompanies your medication.
If you’re uncertain about how to take it or experience any difficulties, seek guidance from a pharmacist or doctor.
The NHS says when taking omeprazole:.
It adds: “Ask a pharmacist for advice if you have problems swallowing pills or capsules. They may be able to suggest different ways to take your medicine.”
Side effects of omeprazole:.
Like all medicines, omeprazole can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them. Common side effects of omeprazole include:.
The NHS says: “Omeprazole will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery. But if you feel dizzy or have problems with your vision after taking it, wait until you no longer have these side effects.”