Prilosec® (
omeprazole) is approved for use in children as young as two years old. Over-the-counter
Prilosec OTC is approved only for adults age 18 and older.
Prilosec is part of a group of medications called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). The stomach contains tiny pumps (called proton pumps) that produce acid. Prilosec works by binding to these proton pumps, stopping the production of acid. Prilosec is very effective at decreasing acid production. As a result, Prilosec is designed to treat conditions such as duodenal ulcers,
H. pylori infections, benign (non-cancerous) gastric ulcers (or stomach ulcers),
gastroesophageal reflux disease (
GERD), and pathological hypersecretory conditions.
When using Prilosec for children, it is important to first talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using this medication.
(Click Prilosec Uses for a more in-depth look at using Prilosec for children, including information on how this medication works for several conditions related to the stomach, intestines, and esophagus.)
