Currently, omeprazole and probiotics represent the most widely used drugs after ibuprofen and paracetamol worldwide. Many people have wanted to replace the use of omeprazole with probiotics, which is a wrong decision since they perform different functions in the body. Omeprazole suppresses acid production in the stomach to prevent injury to the walls of the stomach and esophagus, while probiotics help prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the body.
Stomach acid is the first natural barrier to preventing bacteria, viruses, and fungi from entering our bodies. On the other hand, our digestive system is colonized by a whole series of bacteria that form a complex group called the intestinal microbiota, whose balance is maintained by foods with probiotics. Now, there are drugs capable of exerting this action, so at FastlyHealwe want to provide you with all the information concerning these drugs: omeprazole and probiotics. In addition, we will clarify the doubt about whether I can take omeprazole and probiotics simultaneously.
Table of Contents
What is omeprazole, and what is it used for
Omeprazole is a drug that inhibits the proton pump by preventing gastric acid secretion and is one of the most used drugs for the prevention and treatment of various pathologies [1] :
- Stomach ulcers
- Peptic ulcer.
- Úlcera duodenal.
- Dyspepsia.
- Zollinger-Ellison disorder.
- Helicobacter pylori infection.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by acid reflux from the stomach into the esophagus, causing heartburn and irritation.
They are also indicated as a gastric protector when administered with medications that can be aggressive for the stomach, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as NSAIDs that include aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, when these are taken for more than three days. Omeprazole should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach or as prescribed by the doctor to have the proper effect.
What are probiotics, and what are they used for?
Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms similar to bacteria found in the human intestine; there are identical probiotics available in some foods; probiotics contain buttermilk, yogurt, or soy beverages. These bacteria help maintain a healthy digestive system by limiting the growth of “bad or unhealthy” bacteria.
Some people use probiotics to combat the effects of stomach problems, such as ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux. There is also evidence that probiotics can be used to prevent diarrhea caused by infections or medications. These should not be used by patients with immune systems reduced, as in the case of AIDS patients, because they can cause serious infections.
In their article published in the Cuban Journal, the Institute of Nutrition and Food Hygiene comments that probiotics are capable of stimulating the protective function of the digestive system [2]. Once they are added as a supplement to the diet, they beneficially affect the development of intestinal microbial flora.
Adverse reactions from taking omeprazole and probiotics
In general, omeprazole is well tolerated, and only a small percentage of treated patients experience gastrointestinal effects, including:
- Nausea.
- Diarrhea.
- Colic.
On the other hand, the central nervous system (headache, dizziness, drowsiness) may be experienced less frequently. Finally, this active principle can cause a reduction in kidney function, chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, and severe kidney failure. This happens especially when it is taken for a long time.
Most people experience no side effects when taking probiotics and often report mild abdominal discomfort or gas. Both of these effects generally disappear with continued use.
However, there are a few cases of serious adverse effects that must be considered. The transmigration of bacteria causes a rare example to other body parts. This occurs in minimal populations, as is the case of people with artificial heart valves who should not take probiotics due to the risk of this type of infection.
On the other hand, most children can safely take probiotics. It should only be administered under supervision and according to the dose prescribed by their pediatrician.
Can I take omeprazole and probiotics at the same time?
The use of probiotics and omeprazole simultaneously is not contraindicated since they exert their mechanism of action in different portions of the digestive system. Probiotics can be used in conjunction with antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor ( omeprazole) to treat Helicobacter Pylori infection.
The use of probiotics favors the reduction of adverse effects and improves cure rates with Helicobacter Pylori eradication treatments. Both drugs are safe when administered together. There is no described contraindication of adverse effects when taken simultaneously.
Although these drugs are over-the-counter, that is, without a prescription, it is essential to consider that their use must be carried out under the indication of the general practitioner, who is in charge of indicating the dose and the correct way in which it should be administered.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Can I take omeprazole and probiotics simultaneously? We recommend that you enter our category of Medication and medical tests.
References
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000381.html
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.