Omeprazole is used to treat acid reflux and other conditions caused by excess stomach acid, helping to relieve symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion.

Inside the stomach lining are tiny structures called proton pumps, which release acid to help with digestion. Omeprazole blocks these proton pumps, lowering acid levels in the stomach. This helps to relieve symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux and allows irritated areas of the stomach and oesophagus to heal.

Omeprazole is usually taken once a day, unless your pharmacist or doctor advises otherwise.

For most adults:

Take one dose daily, preferably in the morning before food

Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with water

Try to take it at the same time each day for best results

Without seeing a GP for a check-up, omeprazole should only be taken for up to 4–5 days to help control acid reflux symptoms. If your symptoms persist, worsen, or return, this may indicate a more serious underlying condition and you should see your GP for a full assessment.

Yes, omeprazole can usually be taken with other heartburn medicines such as Gaviscon, but they work in different ways.

Omeprazole reduces the amount of acid your stomach produces and is taken regularly to control symptoms over time.

Gaviscon works by forming a protective layer on top of stomach contents to help prevent acid from rising into the oesophagus and can provide quick, short-term relief.

If you are taking both:

It’s best to space them apart (for example, take omeprazole in the morning before food, and use Gaviscon after meals or at bedtime if needed).

Do not exceed the recommended doses of either medicine.

If you find you need to use additional heartburn medicines regularly while taking omeprazole, or if your symptoms are not improving, speak to a pharmacist or healthcare professional for further advice.

Most people start to notice an improvement in symptoms within a few hours, but it usually takes 1 to 3 days of regular use to feel the full effect. This is because omeprazole works by gradually reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces.

Once it is working, a single daily dose can provide long-lasting acid control for up to 24 hours.

If your symptoms do not improve after a few days or continue despite treatment, you should speak to a pharmacist or healthcare professional for further advice.

These side effects can affect up to 1 in 10 people:

Headache

Stomach pain or discomfort

Diarrhoea or constipation

Wind (flatulence)

Feeling sick (nausea) or vomiting

These side effects are usually mild and temporary and often improve as your body adjusts to the medicine.

If side effects persist, worsen, or concern you, speak to a pharmacist or healthcare professional for advice.

Store omeprazole at room temperature, below 25°C

Keep it in the original packaging to protect it from moisture and light

Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink

Keep out of the sight and reach of children

You can buy omeprazole online through Heba Online Pharmacy. After completing a brief online assessment, a qualified registered doctor or pharmacist will review your answers and issue a prescription if you are eligible.