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Pantoprazole vs. Omeprazole

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

Key takeaways

Pantoprazole (Protonix) and omeprazole (Prilosec) are both proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medications. They’re FDA approved to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other gastrointestinal conditions. Pantoprazole is available by prescription only, while several forms of omeprazole are available over the counter. Both medications are typically taken once a day. Usually, it’s best to take omeprazole without food. Pantoprazole tablets, however, can be taken with or without food. Omeprazole is known to have more drug interactions than pantoprazole, but they have similar side effects.

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Omeprazole Or Pantoprazole? Understanding The Differences

Pantoprazole

(Protonix)

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Omeprazole

(Prilosec)

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Summary for Pantoprazole

Prescription only

Pantoprazole (Protonix) is a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI). It's used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in adults and children. It's also used to treat other conditions involving too much stomach acid, such as erosive esophagitis, in adults only. Pantoprazole (Protonix) is taken by mouth, typically once daily for most conditions. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include headache and diarrhea. Pantoprazole (Protonix) isn't available over-the-counter (OTC).

Indications for Pantoprazole

Pros and Cons for Pantoprazole

Pros

  • Can continue to use with antacids, such as calcium carbonate
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication
  • Oral tablets can be taken without regard to food
  • Available in oral granules and suspension for people with trouble swallowing

Cons

  • Long-term use might weaken bones and raise the risk of bone fractures
  • Might cause or worsen lupus
  • Interacts with warfarin (Coumadin), which can raise the risk of bleeding
  • Not available over-the-counter

Common Side Effects for Pantoprazole

  • Headache (12%)
  • Diarrhea (9%)
  • Nausea (7%)
  • Belly pain (6%)

Please note: Side effect percentages are listed for adults with GERD.

Warnings for Pantoprazole

  • 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 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:

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

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

Prices with our coupons for Pantoprazole vs. Omeprazole

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Pantoprazole30 tablets / 40mg
$9.87$16.47
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Omeprazole30 capsules / 40mg
$8.60$104.49
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