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Does Prilosec OTC Cause Confusion?

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Posted on Fri, 27 Jun 2014
Question: Hello, my 88 year old mother has been taking Prilosec OTC and within the last 5-7 days I have witnessed a dramatic change, she appears confused. I read that this maybe a side effect and B12 is helpful, does she need a blood test or should we try B12?
Thank You,
XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (4 hours later)
Brief Answer:
I would investigate before supplementing B12...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Prilosec OTC is one of the safer known drugs. Some patients however develop allergy which are reported as dizziness and confusion on different websites. But those allergic manifestations are not very common, especially now as it's already 7 days since she started it.

Therefore in my opinion, her confused state is most likely unrelated to prilosec.

Confusion and disorientation is one of the common symptoms seen in elderly. However it is not a condition specific. It could be side effects of other medicines, electrolyte change, infection or other metabolic disturbance. Therefore before I add vitamin b12, I would order for blood tests. Her treating physician will know about those.

It is important and necessary that you bring this concern to her doctor's notice and do not try treating it at home.

Hope I am clear. Let me know if you need clarifications.

Wishing her a speedy recovery.

Regards
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Prasad J

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2005

Answered : 3707 Questions

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Does Prilosec OTC Cause Confusion?

Brief Answer: I would investigate before supplementing B12... Detailed Answer: Hi, Prilosec OTC is one of the safer known drugs. Some patients however develop allergy which are reported as dizziness and confusion on different websites. But those allergic manifestations are not very common, especially now as it's already 7 days since she started it. Therefore in my opinion, her confused state is most likely unrelated to prilosec. Confusion and disorientation is one of the common symptoms seen in elderly. However it is not a condition specific. It could be side effects of other medicines, electrolyte change, infection or other metabolic disturbance. Therefore before I add vitamin b12, I would order for blood tests. Her treating physician will know about those. It is important and necessary that you bring this concern to her doctor's notice and do not try treating it at home. Hope I am clear. Let me know if you need clarifications. Wishing her a speedy recovery. Regards