Omeprazole Suspension

Omeprazole Suspension
Usage
Omeprazole suspension is an oral liquid formulation of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to reduce gastric acid secretion. It is particularly useful for patients who require individualised dosing or have difficulty swallowing capsules, including paediatric patients.
It may be prescribed for:
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Peptic ulcer disease (gastric and duodenal ulcers)
• Erosive oesophagitis
• Zollinger–Ellison syndrome
• Helicobacter pylori eradication regimens (in combination therapy)
• Other acid-related gastrointestinal conditions

Dosage
Dosage should be determined by the prescribing practitioner based on the patient’s age, weight, and clinical condition.
Typical dosing considerations include:
• Usually administered once daily, sometimes twice daily depending on indication
• Best taken before meals (typically 30–60 minutes before eating)
• The suspension should be shaken well before use
• Dose may be adjusted based on clinical response
Patients should follow the prescribed dosing schedule and complete the full course if used for ulcer healing or infection management.

Mechanisms of Action
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).
Its mechanisms include:
Inhibition of the H⁺/K⁺ ATPase (proton pump)
Omeprazole irreversibly inhibits the proton pump in gastric parietal cells.
Reduction of gastric acid secretion
This blocks the final step of acid production, leading to significant and prolonged acid suppression.
Promotion of healing
Reduced acid levels allow healing of ulcers and oesophageal inflammation.

Contraindications
Omeprazole suspension should not be used in patients with:
• Hypersensitivity to omeprazole or other proton pump inhibitors
• Known allergy to any component of the formulation

Precautions
Omeprazole should be used with caution in patients with:
• Hepatic impairment
• Long-term therapy, due to potential risks such as nutrient deficiencies
• Osteoporosis or fracture risk, with prolonged use
• History of gastrointestinal infections
Additional considerations include:
• Long-term use may be associated with:
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Magnesium deficiency
• Increased risk of gastrointestinal infections
• May interact with certain medications (e.g., drugs metabolised via CYP2C19)
• Symptoms of serious conditions (e.g., gastric cancer) may be masked
Patients should seek medical advice if they experience persistent symptoms, unexplained weight loss, or gastrointestinal bleeding.

Storage
• Store as directed by the pharmacy, often refrigerated (2–8°C) for compounded suspensions
• Keep the container tightly closed when not in use
• Shake well before use
• Protect from light
• Do not freeze
• Compounded suspensions may have a limited shelf life
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
Patients should follow the specific storage and expiry instructions provided on the dispensing label supplied by the pharmacy.