Patient/caregiver was educated on the precautions to be observed while taking omeprazole as follows:
- Watch closely for development of any allergic reactions to omeprazole, such as, skin rashes, hives, and rashes. Some patients can present with symptoms of angioneurotic edema, such as, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, throat, and tongue, with consequent difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical help for such findings, especially with difficulty breathing, for any appropriate measures to be considered.
- Omeprazole is mainly metabolized in the liver and is significantly eliminated in urine, by the kidneys. If liver and kidney functions are deficient, metabolism and excretion of omeprazole could be slowed down, leading to increased risk for side-effects and toxicity with the medication. Also, as omeprazole carries the risk for causing acute nephritis and compromised renal function, regular lab work for renal function evaluation is even more important. Observe compliance with any regular labs ordered for evaluation of liver and kidney functions.
- Omeprazole use can sometimes result in gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea. The diarrhea, secondary to omeprazole use, usually is self-limiting and resolve over a period of time. Occasionally it can unresolved and continue longer. Report any unresolved diarrhea to your physician. Observe compliance with recommendations on fluid supplementation, to help replace fluid loss due to diarrhea.
