Standard Dosing for GERD and Heartburn
Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, treats conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), heartburn, and ulcers by reducing stomach acid. Adults typically take 20 mg once daily for 4 weeks for GERD or erosive esophagitis; extend to 8 weeks if needed. For frequent heartburn (2+ days/week), use 20 mg daily for 14 days, with courses repeated no more than once every 4 months.[1]
Dosing for Duodenal and Gastric Ulcers
For duodenal ulcers, the dose is 20 mg once daily for 4 weeks, sometimes followed by 10 mg for another 4 weeks. Active benign gastric ulcers require 40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks. Maintenance therapy for healed duodenal ulcers is 20 mg daily.[1]
H. pylori Eradication Regimens
Triple therapy with omeprazole 20 mg twice daily combines with amoxicillin 1 g twice daily and clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily for 10 days. Dual therapy uses omeprazole 40 mg once daily with amoxicillin 1 g three times daily for 14 days.[1]
Pediatric Dosing by Age and Weight
Children under 1 year or weighing less than 5 kg lack established dosing. For ages 1-16 years:
- GERD: 5-10 mg daily (5-10 kg), 10-20 mg daily (10-20 kg), 20 mg daily (>20 kg), for up to 8 weeks.
- Erosive esophagitis: Same weight-based doses for 8 weeks.
Administer 30 minutes before a meal.[1]
Renal or Hepatic Impairment Adjustments
No dose adjustment needed for mild-to-moderate renal or hepatic issues. Use caution in severe cases; monitor closely.[1]
How to Take It and Missed Doses
Take capsules or tablets whole with water, ideally before breakfast. For suspension, follow mixing instructions. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless near the next dose—do not double up.[1]
Sources
[1]: DailyMed - Omeprazole FDA Label