PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsMedium
A pharmacy technician is assisting a patient who is asking about over-the-counter options for heartburn. The patient mentions they are currently taking 'Omeprazole 20 mg daily' as prescribed. Which of the following statements about omeprazole is true?
- AIt works by neutralizing stomach acid.
- BIt is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces acid production.
- CIt provides immediate relief for heartburn.
- DIt should be taken at bedtime for maximum effectiveness.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. It is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces acid production.
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). PPIs work by irreversibly blocking the proton pumps in the stomach's parietal cells, thereby reducing the production of stomach acid. This mechanism provides long-lasting acid suppression but does not offer immediate relief.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Antacids neutralize stomach acid; PPIs reduce its production.
- C. PPIs do not provide immediate relief; antacids do.
- D. PPIs are generally taken 30-60 minutes before the first meal of the day for best results, not necessarily at bedtime.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
A class of drugs (e.g., omeprazole) that irreversibly block the proton pumps in gastric parietal cells, leading to a significant and long-lasting reduction in stomach acid production.
- Treats GERD, ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
- Taken once daily, usually before breakfast
- Do not provide immediate relief
- Long-term use associated with some risks
Memory trick: Omeprazole: Pumps Out Problematic Acid.