Prilosec

Meaning of Prilosec: Prilosec is the brand name for omeprazole, a medication that reduces stomach acid production to treat and prevent related digestive conditions.

Definition of Prilosec

Prilosec is a brand name for omeprazole, a medication belonging to the proton pump inhibitor class. It works by blocking a specific pump within the cells lining the stomach that is responsible for producing stomach acid, substantially reducing the amount of acid the stomach secretes.

Prilosec is used to treat and prevent conditions related to excess stomach acid, including gastroesophageal reflux disease, in which stomach acid moves backward into the esophagus, and stomach or duodenal ulcers, and it is also used to protect the stomach lining in people taking certain medications that can irritate it. It is generally taken by mouth, once daily, and is available both by prescription and in a lower strength over the counter form.

Because Prilosec substantially reduces stomach acid over an extended period rather than neutralizing acid briefly the way an antacid does, its effect on digestive symptoms typically takes a day or more to become fully apparent and is intended for more sustained acid control.