This article describes omeprazole DR’s dosages, its strengths, and details on how to take it. You’ll also find information on cost savings and coupon options for omeprazole DR.
Omeprazole DR is a generic medication. It doesn’t come in a brand-name version. Omeprazole also comes in an over-the-counter (OTC) tablet form called Prilosec OTC, which you take by mouth. But this form isn’t described in this article. To learn more about Prilosec OTC, talk with your doctor.
If you want to know more about prescription omeprazole, see this overview article. It covers details about the drug’s uses, side effects, ways to save on cost, and more.
Form and strengths of omeprazole
Omeprazole DR oral capsules are taken by mouth. (DR means delayed release. The drug is released into your body when the dose reaches your stomach.)
They’re available in the following strengths:
- 10 milligrams (mg)
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
Dosage of omeprazole
This article describes the usual recommended dosages* for omeprazole DR oral capsules.
If your doctor prescribes this medication, they’ll determine the dosage that’s best for you. Do not change your dosage of omeprazole DR oral capsules without your doctor’s recommendation.
* The drugmaker provides these recommended dosages. Your doctor will prescribe the omeprazole dosage that’s right for you.
Usual recommended omeprazole dosages in adults
The information below describes dosages that are commonly prescribed. That said, always take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the dosage that best meets your needs.
Dosage for ulcers and other conditions
The table below shows recommended dosages for ulcers and other conditions in adults.
| Condition | Recommended dose | Frequency | Length of treatment |
| duodenal ulcer with symptoms | 20 milligrams (mg) | once per day | 4 to 8 weeks |
| Helicobacter pylori* infection | • starting dose: 20 mg to 40 mg • maintenance dose: 20 mg | • starting dose: twice per day • maintenance dose: once per day | • starting dose: 10 to 14 days • maintenance dose: an additional 14 to 18 days |
| stomach ulcer | 40 mg | once per day | 4 to 8 weeks |
| gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with symptoms | 20 mg | once per day | 4 weeks |
| erosive esophagitis (treatment) | 20 mg | once per day | 4 to 12 weeks |
| erosive esophagitis (healing maintenance) | 20 mg | once per day | up to 1 year |
| hypersecretory conditions,† including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome | • starting dose: 60 mg, adjusted up to effective dose • maintenance dose: 60 mg to 120 mg • maximum dose in 24 hours: 120 mg | • starting dose: once per day • maintenance dose: doses greater than 80 mg are divided over 24 hours per doctor’s instructions • maximum dose in 24 hours: dose is divided and given 3 times per day | • starting dose: until therapeutic effect is seen • maintenance dose: continue as long as needed or as long as therapeutic effect is necessary |
* For this infection, doctors prescribe omeprazole DR oral capsules in combination with other medications. The dosage and length of treatment depend on the combination of medications prescribed. (Helicobacter pylori bacteria is sometimes called H. pylori.)
† This means conditions that cause the stomach to produce too much acid.
Dosages of omeprazole in children
The table below shows recommended dosages for certain conditions in children ages 2 to 16 years. The dosages are based on the child’s body weight in kilograms (kg). For reference, 1 kg is equal to about 2.2 pounds (lb).
| Condition | Body weight in kg | Approximate body weight in lb | Recommended dose | Frequency | Length of treatment |
| GERD with symptoms | 10 kg to less than 20 kg | 22 lb to less than 44 lb | 10 mg | once per day | up to 4 weeks |
| GERD with symptoms | 20 kg or more | 44 lb or more | 20 mg | once per day | up to 4 weeks |
| erosive esophagitis (treatment) | 10 kg to less than 20 kg | 22 lb to less than 44 lb | 10 mg | once per day | 4 to 12 weeks |
| erosive esophagitis (treatment) | 20 kg or more | 44 lb or more | 20 mg | once per day | 4 to 12 weeks |
| erosive esophagitis (healing maintenance) | 10 kg to less than 20 kg | 22 lb to less than 44 lb | 10 mg | once per day | up to 1 year |
| erosive esophagitis (healing maintenance) | 20 kg or more | 44 lb or more | 20 mg | once per day | up to 1 year |
As an example, assume that a child weighing 25 kg has GERD. (This weight is about 55 lb.) The child’s doctor prescribes omeprazole DR oral capsules in a dose of 20 mg. That means the child would take the dose once per day for up to 4 weeks.
Dosage adjustments for omeprazole
Your doctor will prescribe a dosage of omeprazole DR oral capsules based on several factors. These include:
- the specific condition being treated and how severe it is
- your age
- other health conditions you may have
- other medications you may take
Missed dose of omeprazole
If you miss a dose of omeprazole DR oral capsules, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s time for the next dose, take the scheduled dose but skip the missed dose. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one.
For tips on how to plan your doses of omeprazole DR oral capsules, read this article. It also provides suggestions on how to avoid missing a dose. You could also try downloading a reminder app on your phone or setting an alarm.
