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Compare Omeprazole vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Omeprazole (Prilosec) and Rolaids (calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide) are both used to treat heartburn, but they work in different ways and are used for different conditions. Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid production and is available both over-the-counter and by prescription. It is used for conditions like GERD, stomach ulcers, and other acid-related issues. On the other hand, Rolaids is an antacid that neutralizes stomach acid and provides quick relief for heartburn and indigestion. Rolaids is available over-the-counter and contains both calcium and magnesium. Omeprazole is typically taken once daily before meals and takes longer to provide relief, while Rolaids can be taken as needed for immediate symptom relief. Omeprazole is not recommended for long-term use due to potential serious side effects, whereas Rolaids should not be used at maximum dosage for more than two weeks. Both medications can interact with other drugs, so it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before using them.

  • Omeprazole (Prilosec)
    Rolaids
  • Omeprazole (Prilosec)
    Rolaids

  • Summary of Omeprazole vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Summary for PPI

    Omeprazole (Prilosec) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Over-the-counter (OTC) omeprazole (Prilosec) can ease heartburn, while the prescription version can treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions involving too much stomach acid. Omeprazole (Prilosec) is taken by mouth, typically once daily 30 minutes before breakfast. Some of the more common side effects of omeprazole (Prilosec) include headache, stomach pain, and nausea. It's available as both brand name and generic medications.

    Summary for Antacid

    Rolaids is a combination medication containing calcium and magnesium. It provides fast symptom relief for heartburn and indigestion.

  • Indications of Omeprazole vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Indications for

    For adults only:

    •Heartburn — OTC only
    •Stomach or duodenal ulcer
    •Lower the risk of duodenal ulcer caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
    •Other medical conditions that cause too much stomach acid (e.g., Zollinger-Ellison syndrome)

    For adults and children:

    •Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
    •Inflamed esophagus due to GERD
    Indications for
    •Heartburn
    •Indigestion
    •Relief of sour stomach

  • Pros and Cons of Omeprazole vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Pros and Const for PPI
    Pros
    •Typically few to no noticeable day-to-day side effects
    •Provides longer-lasting relief than some other heartburn medications
    •Can use for adults, as well as children with certain medical conditions
    •Available as over-the-counter and lower-cost generic options
    Cons
    •Interacts with many medications, such as digoxin (Lanoxin) and clopidogrel (Plavix)
    •Won't provide immediate heartburn relief
    •Usually taken 30 to 60 minutes before eating a meal for best results
    •Not recommended for long-term treatment, except for certain conditions, because of risk of serious side effects
    Pros and Const for Antacid
    Pros
    •Provides fast relief for heartburn and indigestion
    •Can buy over the counter (OTC), without a prescription
    •There are tablets and soft chews in a variety of flavors (Rolaids brand)
    Cons
    •Doesn't last as long as other heartburn medications, like famotidine (Pepcid) and omeprazole (Prilosec)
    •Not meant for long-term use
    •Interacts with the absorption of some other medications, such as certain antibiotics

  • Common Side Effects of Omeprazole vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Common Side Effects for

    Adults

    •Headache (7%)
    •Belly pain (5%)
    •Nausea (4%)
    •Diarrhea (4%)
    •Vomiting (3%)
    •Passing gas (3%)

    Children — similar to the above, with the addition of:

    •Respiratory system problems (up to 75%)
    •Fever (up to 33%)
    •Ear infection (up to 22%)
    Common Side Effects for

    See Risks and Warnings

  • Warnings of Omeprazole vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of hiding symptoms of a more serious problem
    •Sudden kidney problems
    •Severe infectious diarrhea
    •Bone fractures
    •Skin reactions
    •Lupus
    •Low vitamin B12 and magnesium levels
    •Interaction with other medications
    •Inaccurate lab work
    Common Side Effects for
    •Medication interactions
    •High blood calcium

  • Prices with our coupons for Omeprazole vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Learn more about Omeprazole
    Learn more about Rolaids

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