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Is Prilosec OTC The Same As Prilosec?

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Posted on Thu, 29 Dec 2016
Question: I have been taking omeprazole 40 mg 1,100 bi-carb for a number of years because of having GERD and Barrett's esophagus. I am in the gap year of my insurance and the cost for a 30 day supply is over $600. I used a coupon outside of my insurance for several months and paid $150, but now the coupon is not being accepted. I spoke with my Gastroenterologist and he recommended Prilosec, however when I look online I see Zegerid has a 20 mg 1,100 bicarb pill that I can get over the counter. If I get this, should I take two a day to add up to 40 mg, however that would be 2,200 of the bicarb or should I purchase the Prilosec? What is the difference between Prilosec and Prilosec OTC?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Lifestyle modification is primary.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

Prilosec and Prilosec OTC are the same and contain omeprazole. It may be taken once daily before breakfast. About the bicarb or any other antacid, I would rather insist you to take it off and on after meals when you feel dyspeptic, bloated, or heartburn. I do not think that you need it regularly.



In order to relieve yourself, you need to do the following:
* Avoid spicy food. Take small but frequent meals. Avoid long gaps between meals.
* Avoid alcohol intake (if it a part of your habit).
* Take Prilosec (omeprazole) once daily before breakfast. Zegerid can also be taken.
* Take plenty of green leafy vegetables as well as other sources of dietary fibers. Take fiber supplements like isabgol/psyllium husk or senna. I would insist you to increase your dietary fiber intake.
* Regular morning walk and exercise to keep the bowel movements proper.
* Take curd or yogurt on daily basis. It contains beneficial bacteria and should help.
* Yoga and meditation should help.

Hope that helps.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (25 hours later)
Thank you so much!
doctor
Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (8 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Glad to be of service

Detailed Answer:
Feel free to write back directly to me if you ever have a health related query in the future.

Wish you health.

Regards
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1954

Answered : 4467 Questions

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Is Prilosec OTC The Same As Prilosec?

Brief Answer: Lifestyle modification is primary. Detailed Answer: Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic. Prilosec and Prilosec OTC are the same and contain omeprazole. It may be taken once daily before breakfast. About the bicarb or any other antacid, I would rather insist you to take it off and on after meals when you feel dyspeptic, bloated, or heartburn. I do not think that you need it regularly. In order to relieve yourself, you need to do the following: * Avoid spicy food. Take small but frequent meals. Avoid long gaps between meals. * Avoid alcohol intake (if it a part of your habit). * Take Prilosec (omeprazole) once daily before breakfast. Zegerid can also be taken. * Take plenty of green leafy vegetables as well as other sources of dietary fibers. Take fiber supplements like isabgol/psyllium husk or senna. I would insist you to increase your dietary fiber intake. * Regular morning walk and exercise to keep the bowel movements proper. * Take curd or yogurt on daily basis. It contains beneficial bacteria and should help. * Yoga and meditation should help. Hope that helps. Let me know if I could help further. Regards