Prilosec Vs. Pepcid

Introduction

Prilosec and Pepcid are two popular over the counter medicines to help individuals suffering from heartburn or acid reflux. Prilosec and Pepcid have very similar efficacy in treating common ailments associated with acid indigestion.

These medications work in different ways but are both designed to bring relief by managing the levels of acid in the stomach.

Prilosec is also known as omeprazole. It is a type of proton pump inhibitor that lowers the amount of acid produced by the stomach. On the other hand, Pepcid, or famotidine, is an H2 blocker that decreases the action of histamine on the cells responsible for making stomach acid.

About Prilosec and Pepcid

What Is Prilosec?

Prilosec belongs to the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) category. These proton pump inhibitors decrease the amount of acid produced in the stomach. This characteristic makes Prilosec an ideal solution for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers and even preventing certain stomach conditions caused by prolonged nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

It is a widely-used medication that effectively helps manage various conditions related to the digestive system. Prilosec has become an indispensable aid for many individuals in achieving improved well-being and relief from uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms.

What Conditions Is Prilosec Approved to Treat?

Prilosec was first approved by the FDA in 1989. It is approved for treating stomach issues, including gastroesophageal reflux disease. It comes in over-the-counter and prescription, in different doses. Prilosec is available in various forms, including oral tablets and powder forms.

Prilosec is approved to treat the following conditions;

Active duodenal ulcer.
Gastric Ulcer.
Zollinger Ellison Syndrome.
Helicobacter pylori Infection.
Erosive Esophagitis.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Heartburn.

How Does Prilosec Work for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

Hydrochloric acid is important to our stomach's ability to digest food and kill harmful bacteria. However, this process wouldn't be possible without the help of the proton pump's H(+)/K(+)-ATPase. This pump is expressed in large amounts by specialized stomach cells, known as parietal cells.

The ATPase enzyme on the parietal cell membrane exchanges hydrogen and potassium across the cell. In most cases, these exchanges lead to potassium being extruded and the formation of the essential HCl.

Omeprazole is known for its effectiveness in stopping gastric acid secretion. It belongs to the antisecretory category and is a type of substituted benzimidazole. This powerful compound selectively inhibits the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system, which produces gastric acids.

Here it forms strong bonds with cysteine residues through disulfide bridges on the alpha subunit of this enzyme pump. This process can provide relief for up to thirty hours after ingestion. Omeprazole is conveniently dose-related, ensuring optimal results depending on each individual's needs.

Moreover, omeprazole effectively inhibits basal and stimulated acid secretion, making it a versatile option for managing gastric acid-related issues.

What Is Pepcid?

Pepcid is commonly known as famotidine. It is a widely used medication to treat patients with gastric issues.

Pepcid falls under the category of H2 blockers, which are specifically designed to reduce the production of stomach acid.

This reduction of acid leads to less irritation and inflammation within the digestive system, ultimately providing relief from symptoms associated with conditions such as heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and peptic ulcers.

Pepcid is pivotal in helping individuals maintain their digestive health, allowing them to enjoy their favorite meals without discomfort.

What Conditions Is Pepcid Approved to Treat?

Pepcid (famotidine) was first approved by the FDA in 1998. It is approved for treating stomach issues, including gastroesophageal reflux disease. It comes in over-the-counter and prescription, in different doses.

Pepcid is available in various forms, including liquid suspension and injections.

Pepcid is approved to treat the following conditions;

Heartburn.
Acid indigestion.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Stomach ulcers.
Active duodenal ulcer.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Non-ulcer dyspepsia.

How Does Pepcid Work for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

Histamine molecule plays a significant role in our body's digestion process. The molecule works by stimulating the acid output of parietal cells through a method known as a paracrine mechanism. Located close to these parietal cells, we have unique cells called enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells that act as regulators responsible for controlling the basal secretion of histamine.

Histamine is also secreted by peptide hormones too.

The gastrin cells present inside the stomach release gastrin that focuses on CCK2 receptors found on the surface of ECL cells.

When gastrin interacts with these receptors, it sets off a chain of other events. The first of which is the release of histamine from ECL cells. This newly released histamine then seeks out and binds to H2 receptors present on the basolateral membrane of parietal cells. This binding ultimately increases intracellular cAMP levels, activating the proton pumps on parietal cells. These proton pumps then increase the secretion of more acid.

Yet, in certain conditions, such as ulcers, the regulation of acid secretion goes haywire, causing your stomach to produce too much acid. That's when famotidine helps regulate gastric acid production by blocking the histamine action.

Effectiveness

How Effective Are Prilosec and Pepcid for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

While Prilosec and Pepcid are approved to treat the same gastric issues, their action mechanism is different, due to which their effectiveness also varies.

As compared to Prilosec, Pepsid has faster results. Pepcid starts working within an hour, with a peak effect in 1-3 hours. Prilosec takes 1-4 days to fully manage GERD or reflux symptoms. But when the body gets immune to it, it might not work.

In contrast, Prilosec is more effective if an individual seeks long-term solutions.

Dosage Information

How Is Pepcid Administered for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

Pepcid is available in different strengths and forms, including;

Tablet form.
Injection.

Pepcid Dosage Information

The dosage of Pepcid can vary depending on the individual's age, the severity of their problem, and other factors.

How Is Prilosec Administered for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

Prilosec is available in different tablet forms with different strengths.

Prilosec Dosage Information

The dosage of Pepcid can vary depending on the individual's age, the severity of their problem, and other factors.

Side Effects

Both Pepcid and Prilosec have their own side effects. Remember that if you face any of the below-mentioned side effects, immediately talk to your doctor and discontinue your medicine.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Prilosec?

The most common side effects of Prilosec include the following;

Hives.
Difficulty breathing.
Swelling of the face, including lips and cheeks.
Itching on the tongue.
Dizziness.
Nausea.
Extra gas.
Stomach ache.
Headache.
Backpain.
Coughing.
Constipation.

Are There Any Potentially Serious Side Effects of Prilosec?

Some of the serious side effects of Prilosec include the following;

Explosive diarrhea.
Irregular heartbeat.
Fainting.
Sweating (low blood pressure).
Depression.
Hallucinations

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Pepcid?

The most common side effects of Pepcid include the following;

Itching.
Fever and chills.
Sweating.
Breathing issues.
Dry mouth
Upset stomach.
Vomiting.
Nausea.
Fever.
Fatigue.

Are There Any Potentially Serious Side Effects of Pepcid?

Some of the serious side effects of Pepcid include the following;

Seizure.
Fainting.
Irregular heartbeat.

Warnings and General Precautions for Pepcid and Prilosec

It's important to know that Prilosec should not be used as a quick fix for heartburn symptoms. Additionally, omeprazole, the active ingredient in Prilosec, has been associated with potential kidney problems. If you notice a decrease in urination or even blood in your urine, make sure to let your doctor know.

On the other hand, if you're considering Pepcid as an alternative, it's crucial to inform your doctor about any existing conditions such as kidney or liver disease, Long QT syndrome, stomach cancer, asthma, or COPD.

Contraindications and Important Interactions for Pepcid and Prilosec

Contraindications

Pepcid

Patients with liver disease may need to adjust their dosage of Pepcid.

Pepcid should not be given to infants younger than 1-month-old.

Do not use it if you are allergic to its main component, famotidine.

Prilosec

Patients with moderate to severe kidney disease may need to adjust their dosage of Prilosec.

Pepcid should not be given to infants younger than 1-month-old.

Do not use it if you are allergic to its main component, omeprazole.

Drug/Medication Interactions

Pepcid

Albuterol
Claritin (loratadine)
Levothyroxine
Prednisone
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
Lisinopril
Zyrtec (cetirizine)

Prilosec

Digoxin
clopidogrel
Amoxicillin
Clarithromycin
Rifampin
Lipitor (atorvastatin)
Xanax (alprazolam)

Food/Beverage/Supplement Interactions

Pepcid

Grapefruit juice can increase the levels of Pepcid in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects. It's best to avoid grapefruit juice while taking Pepcid.

Pepcid can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help to reduce stomach upset.

Calcium and magnesium supplements can interfere with the absorption of Pepcid. It's best to wait at least 2 hours between taking Pepcid and any calcium or magnesium supplements.

Prilosec

Taking St. John's Wort while taking Prilosec can decrease the effectiveness of the medication. Talking to your doctor before taking any herbal supplements while on Prilosec is important.

Drinking caffeine while taking Prilosec can increase the risk of side effects such as headaches and insomnia.

Prilosec can interfere with the absorption of some supplements, including iron, calcium, and vitamin B12. It's important to discuss any supplements you're taking with your doctor to ensure that they won't interact with Prilosec.

Cost Comparison

How Much Do Pepcid and Prilosec Cost?

The prices of both medications vary by factors, including pharmacy and location.

The Pepcid 20mg oral tablet costs around $36 for 30 tablets. And a hundred tablets will cost around $100. The 40mg tablets of Pepcid start from $38.49 for 30 tablets, and a hundred tablets for 40mg will cost around $106.12.

The Prilosec delayed tablets cost around $20 for 14 tablets. And 28 tablets will cost around $27, while 42 will cost around $33.25.

The Popularity of Prilosec and Pepcid

Prilosec has an average rating of 7 out of 10 across various platforms, with more than half of its users, precisely 56%, expressing satisfaction with its effectiveness in providing relief.

In comparison, Pepcid, another popular medication, has received a slightly lower average rating of 6 out of 10, where about 50% of its users found it helpful in addressing their symptoms.

These contrasting ratings can serve as a helpful guide for anyone seeking to weigh their options and find the medication that best suits their needs.

Conclusion

Takeaway

To sum it up, Prilosec and Pepcid are two excellent medications for those suffering from acid reflux. The active ingredients will provide relief and comfort to the affected areas of the body.

Prilosec is best taken before with food, while Pepcid may be used throughout the day due to its quick absorption rate. While these medications should provide some initial relief, it is important to remember that they cannot cure the root cause of acid reflux, and frequent usage of these medications can lead to a weakened stomach lining and damage to other delicate organs in the gastrointestinal tract.

Therefore, it is recommended that you consult your doctor for further treatment if your condition does not improve after taking either of these drugs.