The NHS has issued a warning to people taking omeprazole, a common heartburn and indigestion medication, highlighting the risks associated with long-term use. Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid production and is widely prescribed for conditions such as acid reflux and heartburn.
Recent figures show that 73 million NHS prescriptions for PPIs were dispensed in England between 2022 and 2023, with around 15% of the UK population using these drugs. While effective, prolonged use can increase the risk of a bacterial infection called Clostridioides difficile, which causes diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and fever.
The NHS advises that omeprazole should not be taken for longer than two weeks without a prescription. If symptoms persist or worsen, patients should consult a GP. Common side effects include headaches, nausea, and dizziness, but the drug is not usually expected to affect driving ability.
Patients are encouraged to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor if they have difficulty swallowing pills or experience any adverse effects.
