Patients across the UK taking the widely prescribed medication omeprazole are being alerted to potentially dangerous interactions with other common drugs, including the anxiety treatment diazepam.
What is Omeprazole and Why is the Warning Issued?
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) frequently prescribed by the NHS to manage conditions such as persistent heartburn, stomach ulcers, and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The medication works by significantly reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach and is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and a liquid.
While over-the-counter versions are typically recommended for short-term use of no more than a fortnight, doctors may prescribe it for longer periods for more severe cases. The new guidance highlights that the effectiveness of omeprazole can be compromised, and the safety profile of other medicines altered, when taken concurrently.
Key Medications That May Interact with Omeprazole
According to the latest NHS advice, a range of common medicines and supplements may not mix well with omeprazole. These interactions can either reduce the efficacy of omeprazole or cause the other drug to work differently than intended, posing potential health risks.
The NHS specifically lists the following as medications to be cautious of:
- Other stomach acid treatments like Lansoprazole and Famotidine
- Anti-anxiety drug Diazepam
- Blood-thinner Warfarin
- Heart medication Digoxin
- Anti-epileptic drug Phenytoin
- Herbal supplement St John's Wort
- HIV treatments Atazanavir and Nelfinavir
Additional Precautions and Next Steps for Patients
Alcohol consumption is also advised against for those taking omeprazole, as it can increase stomach acid and worsen the very symptoms the drug is meant to alleviate.
It is crucial to understand that the provided list is not exhaustive. The NHS strongly recommends that anyone prescribed omeprazole should consult their doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines, including vitamins, supplements, or herbal remedies.
Patients are encouraged to read the information leaflet provided with their medication carefully. If there is any uncertainty about the safety of combining treatments, seeking professional medical advice is the safest course of action.
