Omeprazole vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide for Heartburn: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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)

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Rolaids

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Summary for Omeprazole

Prescription or over-the-counter

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.

Indications for Omeprazole

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

Pros and Cons for Omeprazole

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

Common Side Effects for Omeprazole

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%)

Warnings for Omeprazole

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

Summary for Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

Over-the-counter

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

Indications for Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

Heartburn
Indigestion
Relief of sour stomach

Pros and Cons for Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

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