Why is this medication prescribed?

Aspirin and Omeprazole in combination is prescribed to reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack in people who are at increased risk for these conditions and who also need to take aspirin for its blood-thinning effects. The combination helps protect the stomach lining from the irritation and potential damage that aspirin alone might cause, reducing the risk of gastric ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and other related complications.

How should this medicine be used?

How to Use Aspirin and Omeprazole:

• Dosage: This medication is typically taken once daily, at least 60 minutes before a meal. Follow your doctor’s instructions closely regarding dosage and timing.
• Swallow Whole: Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Swallow it whole with a glass of water.
• Consistency: Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels of the medication in your system.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and follow their instructions for the best outcomes.

Other uses for this medicine

Other Uses for Aspirin and Omeprazole:

• Management of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Used in people with PAD to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.
• Chronic Coronary Syndrome: To manage patients with stable coronary artery disease, reducing the risk of further cardiovascular events.
• Other Off-label Uses: Sometimes used off-label for other conditions where both anti-platelet and gastroprotective effects are beneficial.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions to Follow for Aspirin and Omeprazole:

• Allergic Reactions: Avoid if you are allergic to aspirin, omeprazole, or any other components of the medication.
• Bleeding Risks: Aspirin increases the risk of bleeding. Be cautious if you have a history of ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or other bleeding disorders.
• Kidney or Liver Issues: Inform your doctor if you have any kidney or liver problems.
• Asthma: Aspirin may cause bronchospasm, particularly in people with a history of asthma.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Avoid Other NSAIDs: Do not take other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) without your doctor’s approval, as this increases the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding.
• Vitamin Deficiencies: Omeprazole may affect the absorption of vitamin B12 if taken long-term. Monitor vitamin levels regularly.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
• Notify Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers, including dentists, that you are taking this combination, especially before any surgical or dental procedures.

Always follow your doctor’s advice and consult them if you have any concerns or experience any side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Maintain Adequate Vitamin B12 Levels: Long-term use of omeprazole can affect vitamin B12 absorption, so consider a diet rich in B12 (like meat, dairy products, and fortified foods) or discuss supplements with your doctor.
• Avoid Foods That Trigger Acid Reflux: If you experience heartburn or acid reflux, avoid foods that can trigger symptoms, such as spicy foods, caffeine, citrus, tomatoes, and fatty foods.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support overall health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take as Soon as Possible: If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Skip If Close to Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aspirin and Omeprazole can cause a range of side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Stomach Upset: Nausea, indigestion, or mild stomach pain.
• Heartburn: Omeprazole can sometimes cause acid reflux or a burning sensation in the chest.
• Diarrhea or Constipation: Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation, may occur.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches can occur, especially at the beginning of treatment.
• Dizziness: Some users may experience lightheadedness or dizziness.

Serious Side Effects:

• Bleeding and Bruising: Unusual bleeding or bruising, such as nosebleeds, black or tarry stools, or vomiting blood.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Signs of Liver Problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, severe stomach/abdominal pain.
• Kidney Issues: Symptoms like a change in urine output, blood in the urine, or swelling in the legs or feet.
• Bone Fractures: Increased risk of fractures, particularly in the hip, wrist, or spine, with long-term use.
• Low Magnesium Levels: Muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, or seizures due to prolonged omeprazole use.
• Tinnitus: Ringing or buzzing in the ears, which could indicate aspirin toxicity.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Severe abdominal pain, persistent nausea or vomiting, or severe diarrhea.
• Clostridium Difficile Infection: Long-term use of omeprazole can increase the risk of C. difficile-associated diarrhea, which may be severe.

If you experience any of the serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Aspirin and Omeprazole:

Storage:

• Store the medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
• Do not store in the bathroom, as the humidity can affect the medication’s stability.
• Ensure the medication is stored in a secure place, away from children and pets.

Disposal:

• Do not flush the medication down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so.
• The best way to dispose of medication is through a drug take-back program. Ask your pharmacist or local waste disposal agency for guidance.
• If a take-back program is unavailable, mix the medication with an unpalatable substance (like dirt or coffee grounds) and place it in a sealed plastic bag before throwing it in the trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Signs of Overdose: Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, sweating, dizziness, ringing in the ears, rapid breathing, confusion, drowsiness, or seizures.
• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Call emergency services (911 in the U.S.) or go to the nearest hospital immediately.
• Contact Poison Control: In the U.S., you can call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

What other information should I know?

• Medication Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbs you are taking, as Aspirin and Omeprazole can interact with many other drugs, including blood thinners, NSAIDs, and certain antidepressants.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular check-ups may be necessary to monitor your response to the medication and manage any side effects.
• Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may increase the risk of cardiovascular events.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Ensure that all healthcare providers know you are taking this medication, especially before any surgery or dental procedures.

Always consult your healthcare provider for any additional guidance or if you have specific questions about your treatment with Aspirin and Omeprazole.