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Prilosec Dosage (Cont.)

 
Prilosec Dose for Gastric Ulcers
The recommended Prilosec dose for stomach ulcers (gastric ulcers) is Prilosec 40 mg once daily for four to eight weeks.
 
Prilosec Dose for GERD and Erosive Esophagitis
The recommended Prilosec dose for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is Prilosec 20 mg once daily for up to four weeks. For people with GERD and erosive esophagitis, the recommended dose is Prilosec 20 mg for four to eight weeks. Prilosec can be continued if needed to prevent erosive esophagitis from returning.
 
Prilosec Dose for Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions
People with pathological hypersecretory conditions (such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome) usually require higher Prilosec dosages. The recommended dose is Prilosec 60 mg once daily, although some people may need even higher doses. Doses of Prilosec larger than 80 mg should be split up into two or three smaller doses per day.
 
Prilosec Dosage for Children
The recommended Prilosec dose for children depends upon the weight of the child. For children weighing less than 20 kg (or 44 pounds), the recommended dose is Prilosec 10 mg once daily. For children weighing 44 pounds or more, the recommended dose is Prilosec 20 mg once daily.
 

Prilosec OTC Dosage

The recommended dose of over-the-counter Prilosec OTC® (omeprazole magnesium) for frequent heartburn is Prilosec OTC 20 mg once daily for up to fourteen days every four months. It is not recommended to take Prilosec OTC long-term without talking with your healthcare provider first, in order to rule out more serious conditions.
 

General Prilosec Dosage Information

Some considerations for people taking Prilosec include the following:
 
  • Prilosec comes in capsule form and is taken by mouth once or twice a day. Prilosec OTC comes in tablet form.
     
  • Prilosec is best taken on an empty stomach, half an hour before a meal.
     
  • Prilosec capsules should not be chewed or crushed, as they contain tiny granules with a special coating that prevents stomach acid from destroying the medication. Prilosec OTC tablets should not be cut, crushed, or chewed.
     
  • For people who have difficulty swallowing capsules, Prilosec capsules (but not tablets) can be opened and the contents sprinkled onto a spoonful of applesauce. The applesauce should not be hot and should be swallowed (without chewing) immediately.
     
  • Prilosec should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level of the medication in your blood.
     
  • For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Prilosec will not work if you stop taking it.
     
  • If you are unsure about anything related to Prilosec or your Prilosec dosage, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Do not stop taking the drug without discussing it with your healthcare provider.

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;