Question 1

what is the difference between zegerid otc and prilosec otc?

Accepted Answer

Antacaid: Zegerid otc contains sodium bicarbonate which is an antacid in addition to Omeprazole which is in both.

Question 2

will taking an otc medicine such as prilosec or zegerid interfere with prescription meds such as metformin?

Accepted Answer

Maybe: Otc Prilosec et. Al. Will change the acidity of the stomach.  Some rx meds need the acid to be absorbed.  Take the Prilosec alone at bedtime.  Take any and all other meds at least 2 hours before or the next morning.

Question 3

i have g.e.r.d is it ok to take zegerid otc longer than the 14 days?

Accepted Answer

Probably: Zegerid otc is a proprietary brand of Omeprazole plus sodium bicarbonate. Omeprazole is used for long term control of peptic ulcers, etc. However, it's always a good idea to get checked out by your family physician to be sure your gerd symptoms aren't masking something else more dangerous. Better yet, make appropriate lifestyle changes to decrease gerd symptoms.

Question 4

could i be taking the wrong acid reflux medicine if i am still constantly burping and having chest pains? i have had acid reflux for over a year now and i have been taking zegerid otc since i don't have health insurance. recently i have been constantly bu

Accepted Answer

Have : Have you had an endoscopy to look at your esophagus?  That sounds like very severe heartburn and you should be completely evaluated.  I understand your insurance concerns, but please seek out a local clinic (there are free clinics that can often help you so ask for that).  If the zegerid isn't working, then you could also add carafate (sucralfate) which works a different way (it coats the esophagus/stomach) which may help you.  Also as you know, if you are overweight then losing weight will help, sleep with your head elevated, and don't smoke or drink which increases stomach acid.  Please have a medical evaluation by a GI doctor as soon as you can.

Question 5

why don't different brands of omeprazole work as well as prilosec otc?

Accepted Answer

Absorption: Generic Omeprazole is the same medication as Prilosec otc.  However, the formulation may result in different absorption so that the levels of medication in your bloodstream may be different.  If the brand name works better for you, keep taking it.

Question 6

is it possible for me to take pepsid complete after taking prilosec otc?

Accepted Answer

YES: If you need it, yes. Pepcid (famotidine) will help pretty soon anter taking it , Prilosec will take couple days to work.

Question 7

is it true that prilosec otc can cause osteoporosis after a few years of use?

Accepted Answer

Prilosec: It is not true and certainly would not lead to osteoporosis at your age unless you are taking other meds that might affect your bones.

What you need to find out is why you have a stomach ache so often.

Question 8

i'm taking 20mg pantoprazole for a long time and it is not working any longer. it was suggested i try two tablets of prilosec otc (40mg). i'm 120 lbs.

Accepted Answer

PPI: Both of these medications are considered proton pump inhibitors, PPI.  They work by inhibiting the acid produced by the stomach and therefore decreasing the risk for developing ulcer.  All of the medications are available over-the-counter at a usually lower dose.  You may be able to get a prescription for a higher dose than may be cheaper.

Question 9

prilosec otc box says to use for 14 days, then not use again for 4 months. repeat. most people take it everyday though. is the "box cycle" effective?

Accepted Answer

It can be: It can be, for very mild symptoms. For more persistent symptoms of reflux, a 6-week course of everyday use often results in prolonged relief that can last for months or longer afterwards.  Everyday use without end is reserved for severe cases that don't resolve with initial treatment.  You're correct that most people do not use this medication correctly and don't get great results accordingly.

Question 10

will prilosec otc be just as effective if i start taking it every other day rather than everyday? its somewhat expensive to buy and wanted to buy less

Accepted Answer

Not: Necessarily but if you follow under GERD precautions symptoms may improve. No smoking,  small meals, upright during eating and at least one hour, avoid alcohol,  maintain  ideal weight

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Doctor answers about:

Prilosec vs zegerid otc

A member asked:

What is the difference between zegerid otc and prilosec otc?

A member asked:

Will taking an otc medicine such as prilosec or zegerid interfere with prescription meds such as metformin?

A member asked:

I have g.e.r.d is it ok to take zegerid otc longer than the 14 days?

A member asked:

Could i be taking the wrong acid reflux medicine if i am still constantly burping and having chest pains? i have had acid reflux for over a year now and i have been taking zegerid otc since i don't have health insurance. recently i have been constantly bu

A member asked:

Why don't different brands of omeprazole work as well as prilosec otc?

A member asked:

Is it possible for me to take pepsid complete after taking prilosec otc?

A member asked:

Is it true that prilosec otc can cause osteoporosis after a few years of use?

A member asked:

I'm taking 20mg pantoprazole for a long time and it is not working any longer. it was suggested i try two tablets of prilosec otc (40mg). i'm 120 lbs.

A member asked:

Prilosec otc box says to use for 14 days, then not use again for 4 months. repeat. most people take it everyday though. is the "box cycle" effective?

A member asked:

Will prilosec otc be just as effective if i start taking it every other day rather than everyday? its somewhat expensive to buy and wanted to buy less

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