Omeprazole

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Omeprazole (brand name Prilosec) — Antiulcer, antisecretory; Proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Antiulcer, antisecretory.
• Pharmacologic class: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Irreversibly blocks the gastric proton pump to reduce acid secretion.
• Onset / peak / duration: Onset about 1 hour; full effect over several days; duration up to 72 hours.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life 0.5 to 1 hour with long effect; no routine level.

Clinical use

• Indications: GERD, peptic ulcer, H. pylori (with antibiotics), erosive esophagitis.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: 20 to 40 mg PO once daily before breakfast.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Use lowest effective dose for the shortest time; reduce in severe hepatic impairment.

Safety

• Contraindications: Use with rilpivirine, hypersensitivity.
• Black box warning: None.
• Interactions: Clopidogrel (reduced activation), reduces absorption of drugs needing acid (some antifungals, iron), warfarin, methotrexate; St. John's wort (herbal).
• Pregnancy / lactation: Use if needed.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea.
• Serious effects to report: C. difficile diarrhea, low magnesium, B12 deficiency and fractures with long use, acute interstitial nephritis.
• Antidote / reversal: Not applicable.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Symptoms, magnesium with long use, interacting drugs.
• Interventions during therapy: Give 30 to 60 minutes before the first meal.
• Monitor: Symptom relief, magnesium, B12 with prolonged use.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Reduced reflux and ulcer healing.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Take before breakfast; do not crush delayed-release; for short-term use unless directed.
• Notify provider if: Persistent diarrhea, muscle cramps, ongoing symptoms.
• Administration tips: 30 to 60 minutes before eating; swallow capsules whole.