Zegerid (Omeprazole/Sodium Bicarbonate)

What is Zegerid?

Zegerid is a combination of Omeprazole, which is a proton pump inhibitor, and sodium bicarbonate, which is an antacid.

What is Zegerid used for?

Zegerid assists in treating ulcers, gastro esophageal reflux diseases (GERD), erosive esophagistis, and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. It is also used to treat other diseases associated with high acid quantity produced in the stomach. The medicine also treats stomach bleeding in very ill patients and relieves the patient from heartburn, persistent cough, insomnia and swallowing troubles.

How does Zegerid work?

Omeprazole present in Zegerid helps reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach by blocking the enzyme in the wall of stomach that generates this acid. Sodium bicarbonate raises the pH level in the stomach that helps omeprazole break down the acid and provide relief from serious acid damage in the stomach.

How to use Zegerid

Zegerid should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Carefully follow all instructions given on the prescription label. Taking it in larger amount or for longer period than prescribed can cause health problems.

It is recommended that Zegerid should always be taken on an empty stomach, that is to say, one hour before taking meal.

The capsule should be taken as a whole, with a full glass of water, and not with any other form of liquid or food.

If one wishes to take the drug in its powder form, then empty one packet of it in a glass and add one or two tablespoons of water. Stir well, and drink it completely and immediately. Do not keep it for later use.

Zegerid warnings and precautions

If you are recommended to be on a low-salt or low-sodium diet, then you wouldn’t be advised to use Zegerid, as the drug contains sodium bicarbonate. Do not take Zegerid if you are allergic to any of its contents.

If your doctor has prescribed any precautions regarding food, beverages or any other activity, which is not to be done while on Zegerid medication, then, follow the advice seriously.

You are advised to discuss your medical history in full detail with your medical advisor. If you have had a history of medical problems such as high blood pressure, respiratory alkalosis, Bartter’s Syndrome, liver diseases, hypokalemia, hypocalcaemia, stomach tumors, you must discuss with your doctor before taking this medicine.

Abstain from alcohol completely during and after the course of this medication.

If you are a pregnant or lactating female, take your doctor’s advice before taking the medicine.

What do I do if I have missed a Zegerid dose?

If you have missed your Zegerid dose, you should take it as soon as you remember, but if it is already time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your schedule.

What do I do if I have taken a Zegerid overdose?

If you have taken a Zegerid overdose, you should immediately seek the help of your doctor.

Zegerid interactions

There is a list of drugs, which should not be taken along with Zegerid. Some of them are warfarin, Prograf, Dilantin, Nizoral, Antabuse, Valium, Plavix, Biaxin, and other iron supplements. These drugs, if taken concurrently with Zegerid, may interact and cause harm to the patient’s health.

It is very important to inform your doctor about all the medicines that you have been taking previously; because the consumption of Zegerid gradually alters the actual way your body absorbs or reacts to other drugs.

Ask your doctor before taking any vitamins or mineral supplements.

Zegerid side effects

If the consumption of this medicine results in any kind of allergies such as hives, trouble in breathing, swelling on face or lips, consult the doctor without delay.

There can be some rare but major side effects of Zegerid, like frequent bruising or bleeding, a lot of weakness, and uneven heartbeat. One must immediately consult the doctor, if any such signs are seen.

Minor Zegerid side-effects include headache, nausea, pain in stomach, white patches in or around mouth, mouth sores, mild fever, diarrhea, and constipation.