Prevas 

Presentation: Each enteric-coated capsule contains Omeprazole BP 20 mg or 40 mg (strength will be specified on the packaging).

Indications: Prevas (Omeprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) indicated for the treatment of acid-related disorders, including:

• Gastric and duodenal ulcers
• NSAID-associated gastric and duodenal ulcers
• Prophylaxis in patients with a history of NSAID-associated ulcers
• Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), including erosive esophagitis and symptomatic GERD
• Long-term management of acid reflux disease  
• Acid-related dyspepsia  
• Severe ulcerating reflux esophagitis  
• Prophylaxis of acid aspiration during general anesthesia  
• Zollinger-Ellison syndrome  
• Helicobacter pylori  eradication (in combination with antibiotics)

Dosage and Administration: Prevas capsules should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and taken on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before a meal, preferably in the morning. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the specific condition being treated and the physician's instructions.

• Gastric Ulcer: 20 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks. In severe cases, 40 mg daily.
• Duodenal Ulcer: 20 mg once daily for 2-4 weeks. In severe cases, 40 mg daily. Maintenance dose for recurrent duodenal ulcer is 20 mg once daily, or 10-20 mg daily for relapse prevention.
• GERD: 20 mg once daily for 4 weeks, with possible extension to 8 weeks. For severe cases or if refractory to other treatment, 40 mg once daily for 8 weeks may be used. Maintenance dose is 20 mg once daily, or 10-20 mg daily for long-term management.
• Acid-related Dyspepsia:10-20 mg once daily for 2-4 weeks.  
• Prophylaxis of Acid Aspiration:40 mg on the preceding evening, then 40 mg 2-6 hours before surgery.  
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome:Initialdose 60 mg once daily, adjusted based on acid secretion. Usual range 20-120 mg daily (doses over 80 mg should be divided).
• H. pylori Eradication: 20 mg twice daily in combination with specific antibiotics (e.g., Amoxicillin and Metronidazole, or Clarithromycin and Metronidazole) for one week.
• Children (over 1 year) with severe ulcerating reflux esophagitis:If body-weight 10-20 kg, 10-20 mg once daily for 4-12 weeks; if body-weight over 20 kg, 20-40 mg once daily for 4-12 weeks.  

Side Effects: Common side effects may include headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, abdominal pain, and constipation. Less common side effects can include dizziness, insomnia, and skin rash. Long-term use may be associated with an increased risk of bone fractures, low magnesium levels, and vitamin B12 deficiency in some individuals.

Precautions: Prevas (Omeprazole) is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to omeprazole or any of the excipients. Gastric malignancy should be excluded before initiating therapy. Caution should be exercised in patients with severe liver disease. Omeprazole can interact with several other medications, including diazepam, warfarin, and phenytoin, potentially delaying their elimination. The dose of warfarin or phenytoin may need to be reduced when Omeprazole is added. Concomitant use with clopidogrel should be avoided as omeprazole may reduce its pharmacological activity.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation:Omeprazole should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus.⁴If the use of Omeprazole is considered essential, breastfeeding should be discontinued.

Storage: Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.