Differences between Prevacid and Prilosec
Contents
Prevacid vs. Prilosec[edit]
Prevacid and Prilosec are brand names for medications that reduce the production of stomach acid.[1] Both belong to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).[2] The active ingredient in Prevacid is lansoprazole, while the active ingredient in Prilosec is omeprazole.[2] These medications work by blocking the enzyme system responsible for producing stomach acid, known as the hydrogen-potassium ATPase pump, located in the parietal cells of the stomach lining.[3] While both drugs are used to treat similar conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers, they have some differences in their available formulations, approved uses, and dosages.[1][2]
Both Prevacid and Prilosec are available in prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) forms.[1] Their effectiveness in treating conditions like GERD is considered comparable, although some studies suggest lansoprazole may offer slightly faster relief from heartburn symptoms in the initial stages of treatment.[1][3] Ultimately, the choice between the two often depends on individual response and a healthcare provider's recommendation.[2]
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Prevacid | Prilosec |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Lansoprazole[1] | Omeprazole[2] |
| Drug Class | Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)[2] | Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)[2] |
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits the H+/K+ ATPase (proton pump) in gastric parietal cells, reducing acid secretion.[3] | Inhibits the H+/K+ ATPase (proton pump) in gastric parietal cells, reducing acid secretion.[3] |
| Common Uses | Treatment of GERD, stomach and duodenal ulcers, erosive esophagitis, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.[2] | Treatment of GERD, stomach and duodenal ulcers, erosive esophagitis, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.[2] |
| Prescription Strengths | 15 mg and 30 mg capsules.[4] | 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg capsules.[4] |
| OTC Formulation | Prevacid 24HR (15 mg).[5] | Prilosec OTC (20.6 mg omeprazole magnesium, equivalent to 20 mg omeprazole).[1] |
| Onset of Action | May provide slightly faster relief from heartburn in the initial weeks.[1][3] | May take 1-4 days for full effect.[2] |
| Administration | Should be taken before a meal.[4] | Typically taken 30 minutes before breakfast.[4] |
| Common Side Effects | Headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea.[1] | Headache, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, gas.[4] |
Formulations and Dosage[edit]
Prevacid is available as delayed-release capsules in 15 mg and 30 mg strengths, and as an orally disintegrating tablet.[5] The over-the-counter version, Prevacid 24HR, is available in a 15 mg dosage.[5] Prescription Prilosec comes in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg delayed-release capsules.[4] The OTC version, Prilosec OTC, contains 20.6 mg of omeprazole magnesium.[1] Dosages for both medications vary depending on the condition being treated, with typical prescription doses ranging from 15-30 mg for Prevacid and 20-40 mg for Prilosec, often taken once or twice daily.[2]
Drug Interactions[edit]
Both Prevacid and Prilosec can interact with other medications. Omeprazole has a more extensive history of documented drug interactions, particularly with drugs metabolized by the CYP2C19 enzyme system, which can include warfarin and diazepam. Lansoprazole is considered to have fewer significant drug interactions. Both medications can reduce the absorption of drugs that require a low gastric pH to be absorbed effectively. Patients should consult with a healthcare professional about all medications they are taking before starting either Prevacid or Prilosec.
Long-Term Use[edit]
Long-term use of both Prevacid and Prilosec has been associated with an increased risk of bone fractures and low levels of vitamin B12.[4] These medications are generally intended for short-term use, typically up to eight weeks for conditions like GERD.[5] Any long-term use should be under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 "singlecare.com". Retrieved January 23, 2026.
- ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 "khealth.com". Retrieved January 23, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 "click2pharmacy.co.uk". Retrieved January 23, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 "goodrx.com". Retrieved January 23, 2026.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "verywellhealth.com". Retrieved January 23, 2026.
