What Is the Difference between Omeprazole and an Antacid?
The main difference between omeprazole and an antacid is their mechanism of action, or how they work. Both medications are used to treat the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), which is commonly known as heartburn. In more severe cases the drug of choice may be omeprazole and an antacid may be recommended in the milder form of the condition. There are a number of different types and forms of antacids which may be known by different trade names in different countries, according to manufacturer, which are usually available as over-the-counter products. Omeprazole, too, may be known by different trade names in different countries and, in some, may be available by prescription only.
Heartburn is a commonly found clinical condition usually caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. This may cause pain and discomfort, especially after eating; a sour taste in the mouth; and if left untreated, can progress to ulceration of the stomach. The initial treatment includes non-drug lifestyle changes such a change in diet but medical treatment may be needed. Usually an antacid will be recommended first, but if this is not sufficient to control the symptoms, other drugs such as ranitidine or omeprazole may be prescribed.
Antacids may consist of one or a combination of active ingredients including calcium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide and magnesium oxide. These relieve the symptoms of heartburn by binding to excess acid in the stomach. Omeprazole belongs to the class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and works by blocking the action of pumps in the cells of the lining of the stomach that usually secrete acid, thus lowering the levels of acid and relieving the symptoms of heartburn.
Omeprazole and an antacid differ in the side effects which may be experienced while taking them. Antacids may cause constipation or diarrhea, and those containing calcium salts may increase the amount of calcium in the blood. Omeprazole may cause headache, dizziness and disturbances of the gastrointestinal tract. Should adverse effects occur, they should be discussed with the doctor or pharmacist.
As with any medications, omeprazole and antacids may interact with other medications. Any prescribed, over-the-counter, complementary or homeopathic medicines being taken at the same time should be discussed with the doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment with either drug. Pregnancy, desired pregnancy and lactation should also be disclosed, as this may affect the decision of which, between omeprazole and an antacid, is the most suitable treatment.
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![Antacids may contain calcium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium oxide, or a combination of the three.]()
By: chamillewAntacids may contain calcium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium oxide, or a combination of the three. -
![Omeprazole prevents the cells of the stomach lining from secreting acid.]()
By: ConvitOmeprazole prevents the cells of the stomach lining from secreting acid. -
![Antacids bind excess acid in the stomach.]()
By: Photographee.euAntacids bind excess acid in the stomach. -
![Pregnancy may affect the decision of whether to take omeprazole or an antacid.]()
By: hartphotographyPregnancy may affect the decision of whether to take omeprazole or an antacid. -
![Doctors will typically only prescribe either omeprazole or ranitidine, not both.]()
By: emiliauDoctors will typically only prescribe either omeprazole or ranitidine, not both. -
![Omezprazole and antacids can both be used to treat symptoms of GERD.]()
By: bilderzwergOmezprazole and antacids can both be used to treat symptoms of GERD.
Discussion Comments
Omeprazole is bad stuff, read about it.
@fBoyle-- Have you spoken to your doctor about this? I don't think it's a good idea to take medications without seeking a doctor's opinion.
Generally, if antacids are not effective enough, a proton pump inhibitor may be used. Omeprazole is more effective than antacids because it prevents the stomach from producing too much acid, rather than trying to get rid of the excess acid after it has been produced, which is what antacids do.
But proton pump inhibitors can have more side effects. For example, I developed a vitamin deficiency when I was on omeprazole which is something I never had with antacids.
I experience heartburn sometimes at night. It prevents me from sleeping. I do take an antacid but it seems to take some time to be effective. Should I take omeprazole instead?
I had acid reflux disease for close to two years because of a stomach bacterial infection. I used both omeprazole and antacid medications during this time. In the beginning, I was only taking antacids but my symptoms kept getting worse and the antacids weren't enough.
So my doctor told me to start using omeprazole. I would take omeprazole every morning and then antacids during the day as necessary.
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