🎄📦 Due to Xmas & New Year, the next dispatch dates are: 23rd Dec, 27th Dec, 30th Dec, and 2nd Jan.
🎄📦 Due to Xmas & New Year, the next dispatch dates are: 23rd Dec, 27th Dec, 30th Dec, and 2nd Jan.
Living with acid reflux can be tough, but you’re far from alone; it’s estimated that around 1 in 5 people experience acid reflux in the UK, affecting their everyday well-being. You’re always watching what you eat, yet that burning sensation comes back again and again. If you’ve been hunting for a lasting solution, you’ve likely heard of Lansoprazole and Omeprazole. These two medicines are often recommended for treating Acid Reflux. But how do you know which one is right for you?
| Feature | Lansoprazole | Omeprazole |
|---|---|---|
| Available Doses | 15mg and 30mg, Oridispersible | 20mg, Hard Capsules |
| Dosage | Usually taken once a day, the dosage varies | Usually taken once a day, the dosage varies |
| Effectiveness | Acts faster in relieving acid reflux symptoms | Effective, but may act slower |
| Long-Term Risks | Possible links to dementia | Possible links to dementia and other risks |
| Availability in the UK | Prescription-only | Prescription and some over-the-counter |
| Side Effects | Stomach pain, diarrhoea, constipation | Headache, nausea, vomiting |
Both Lansoprazole and Omeprazole belong to a class of drugs called Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). These medications work by reducing the amount of stomach acid your body produces. When you eat, your stomach produces acid to break down food. But if you have acid reflux, this acid can flow back into your food pipe and cause irritation. Acid reflux is caused by various things like food, stress, smoking and alcohol.
That’s where PPIs come in. They work by blocking a specific enzyme found in the lining of the stomach. This enzyme is vital for the production of stomach acid.
Omeprazole or Lansoprazole are most commonly used to treat acid reflux and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) symptoms. They are also used to treat:
Stomach Ulcers: By decreasing the levels of stomach acid, they make it easier for stomach ulcers to heal, preventing further damage to the stomach lining.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Although less common, this condition causes your stomach to produce too much acid. Lansoprazole and Omeprazole can keep this in check by controlling the acid output.
Omeprazole and Lansoprazole come in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, and liquid. Usually, you take them before a meal to get the best effect, so if your GP or pharmacist has prescribed one of these meds, it’s key to follow the dosing guidelines they give you.
When dealing with stomach issues, you want a medication that provides fast and effective relief. So, let’s look at how Lansoprazole and Omeprazole measure up.
Both Lansoprazole and Omeprazole are commonly used to treat acid reflux. Studies have shown that Lansoprazole acts faster than Omeprazole in relieving acid reflux symptoms. However, both medications effectively heal esophagitis, the inflammation in your oesophagus caused by stomach acid.
Heartburn is often a symptom of acid reflux. Both medications are effective in treating heartburn. Another study found that Lansoprazole was more effective in normalising oesophageal acid exposure, which is crucial for heartburn relief, than Omeprazole.
Both medications are also used to treat stomach ulcers and work by reducing stomach acid, which allows the ulcer to heal more effectively. However, the choice between the two often depends on factors like your medical history and other medications you’re taking.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome is a rare condition where the stomach produces too much acid. Both Lansoprazole and Omeprazole are effective in treating this syndrome, but your GP or pharmacist may have a preference based on your specific symptoms and needs.
Every medication comes with its own set of side effects, and Lansoprazole and Omeprazole are no exception. Understanding side effects can help you make an informed choice about which of the drugs is best for you.
Lansoprazole: Stomach pain, Diarrhea, Constipation.
Omeprazole: Headache, Nausea, Vomiting
Lansoprazole: Skin rash, joint pain, dizziness
Omeprazole: Muscle weakness, sleep issues, liver problems
For a full list of side effects, read the Lansoprazole and Omeprazole patient information leaflets.
Taking Lansoprazole or Omeprazole for a long time can effectively treat acid reflux and other stomach issues, but it’s important to be aware that long-term use may come with risks.
Recent studies have shown mixed results regarding the link between long-term PPI use and dementia., with individuals who used PPIs for more than 4.4 years having a 33% higher risk of developing dementia. Further studies also highlight the risk showing up after people have used the drugs for more than 4 years. The study analysed data from 5,712 people ages 45 years and older who did not have dementia at the start. Among the 497 people in the study who took the drugs for more than 4.4 years, 58 people developed dementia.
It’s important to note that these studies do not prove that PPIs cause dementia; they only show an association. More research is needed to understand the link between long-term PPI use and dementia risk. If you’re concerned about this, it’s best to consult your GP or pharmacist for advice tailored to your specific needs.
Long-term use of Omeprazole may also increase the risk of Clostridioides difficile, which is associated with diarrhoea and osteoporosis-related fractures.
In the UK, you’ll generally need a prescription from your GP to get Lansoprazole, as it’s not sold over the counter.
On the other hand, Omeprazole is available by prescription, too, but lower-strength versions can sometimes be bought over the counter at pharmacies for short-term treatment of heartburn and acid reflux.
Lansoprazole and Omeprazole are effective for treating acid reflux, GERD and heartburn. While studies suggest that Lansoprazole may act faster, your pharmacist will be able to advise which medication is the best choice for you.
If you’re looking for reliable acid reflux treatment, the pharmacists at our acid reflux clinic can prescribe Proton-Pump Inhibitors like Lansoprazole, Omeprazole, Esomeprazole and Pantoprazole online.
Generally, these medications are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless clearly needed and advised by a healthcare professional.
Lansoprazole is only available on prescription, while lower-strength Omeprazole can sometimes be bought over the counter.
Yes, both can interact with other drugs, but Lansoprazole may be less effective if taken with antacids like Gaviscon.
There are no known alcohol interactions, but it’s best to consult your GP or pharmacist.
