Comparing Lansoprazole vs Omeprazole for Acid Reflux

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? 

Lansoprazole vs Omeprazole: At a Glance

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

What are Lansoprazole and Omeprazole?

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.

Effectiveness of Lansoprazole vs Omeprazole 

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. 

Effectiveness in Treating Acid Reflux

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. 

Effectiveness in Treating Heartburn

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.

Effectiveness in Treating Stomach Ulcers

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.

Effectiveness in Treating Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome

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.

Side Effects of Lansoprazole vs Omeprazole

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. 

Common Side Effects

• Lansoprazole: Stomach pain, Diarrhea, Constipation.

• Omeprazole: Headache, Nausea, Vomiting

Rare Side Effects

• 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.

Long-Term Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors

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.

Availability in the UK

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.

Acid Reflux Treatment from Click2Pharmacy

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.