Prilosec FAQ

Were you or a loved one injured by side effects of Prilosec?

What is Prilosec?

Prilosec (generic: omeprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drug that is used to treat certain esophageal problems such as acid reflux and ulcers. The medication works by blocking an enzyme in the wall of the stomach that produces acid. Omeprazole was originally approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in 1989 as Losec; the name was changed to Prilosec the next year.

What Other Drugs are Proton Pump Inhibitors?

In addition to Prilosec, other PPIs include:

What’s the Problem with PPIs?

Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec may cause problems with the body’s ability to absorb calcium, magnesium and other essential nutrients. Patients who take PPIs for prolonged periods (typically over one year) may face an increased risk of developing kidney damage, heart problems, bone fractures and other serious side effects.

What Serious Side Effects has Prilosec Been Linked to?

  • Acute interstitial nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys)
  • Acute kidney injury
  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
  • Kidney failure (end-stage renal disease or ERSD)
  • Cardiac disorders
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Bone fractures (hip fracture, wrist fracture, spine fracture)
  • Broken bones
  • Low magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia)
  • Rebound Acid Hypersecretion (RAHS)
  • Gut infections
  • Clostridium difficile infection
  • Community-acquired pneumonia
  • Dementia
  • Erectile dysfunction (ED)
  • Severe allergic reactions

Are There Other Side Effects?

Prilosec may also cause the following less severe side effects in some users:

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Decreased appetite
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Abdominal pain
  • Allergic reactions
  • Chest pain
  • Dark urine
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Fever

Are Proton Pump Inhibitors Overused?

Studies have found that up to 70% of PPI users were prescribed the medications without a clear medical reason, and many have never been taken off the drugs even though their conditions may have changed. Additionally, Prilosec is now available over-the-counter, which means that many patients are taking the drug without the advice of a doctor.

Has There Been a Recall?

To date, no recall has been issued for Prilosec in the U.S., and it continues to rank among the top 5 best-selling OTC medications in the country. However, the investigation into the potential health risks posed by the drug is still in its early stages, and it often takes many years and thousands of hours of investigation for all the facts to come out that may ultimately lead to a recall.

Have Any Settlements Been Reached?

The Prilosec litigation is still in its early stages and there have been no significant settlements reached over injuries allegedly caused by the drug. However, our lawyers are accepting potential individual lawsuits for people who suffered kidney damage after taking Prilosec.

What are Prilosec Lawsuits Alleging?

Previous lawsuits have accused AstraZeneca of:

  • Manufacturing a dangerous and/or defective medication
  • Failing to adequately warn of the drug’s risks
  • Knowingly hiding the dangers of Prilosec from the public and medical community
  • Marketing Prilosec in an illegal or improper manner

What Should I Do if I’m Currently Taking Prilosec?

If you take Prilosec and are concerned about the side effects, you should talk to your doctor as soon as possible. However, you should never switch or quit taking a prescription medication without consulting your physician first.

How Long Do I Have to File a Prilosec Lawsuit?

Each state imposes its own specific statute of limitations (SOL) regarding how long consumers have to file a products liability lawsuit. If you suffered kidney damage after taking Prilosec, you should contact a lawyer to learn more about your legal rights. Don’t wait – your time to file a claim is limited.

How Much Does it Cost?

Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you pay nothing unless we achieve a favorable outcome in your case. We provide absolutely free case evaluations, so contact us today to learn more about your legal rights.

How Much Money Can I Recover by Filing a Prilosec Lawsuit?

If you suffered kidney damage after taking Prilosec, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses (both past and future), lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Additionally, you may be awarded punitive damages if the defendant’s behavior is determined to be especially harmful.

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