Prilosec Alternatives: Nexium, Prevacid, Zantac, Protonix

Prilosec is often the go to choice for medical professional that are looking to treat over production of digestive acids in the stomach, but not everyone reacts the same way to this medication. Often because of unique conditions, the medication may need to be adjusted to one of the Prilosec alternatives. Beyond the different types of medication, there are a number of lifestyle factors that can be altered to provide further relief of the gastrointestinal problems, including diet, stress levels, and even surgery. Below there will be a brief discussion on the other medications that are available and how they compare with Prilosec, consisting of the following comparisons: Nexium vs. Prilosec, Prevacid vs. Prilosec, Zantac vs. Prilosec, and Protonix vs. Prilosec. Use the following information to open the dialogue with your physician and find the medication that will suit your needs the best while resulting in the least amount of negative side effects.

Nexium (esomeprazole) vs. Prilosec (omeprazole)

Both of these medications are very similar in chemical composition and function using proton pump inhibitors (PPI) as the main mechanism. While the differences are minor, there is a difference in the approved age that each of these medications can safely treat: Prilosec is approved for children over the age of 2 years old, whereas Nexium is solely approved and prescribed for adults.

Prevacid (lansoprazole) vs. Prilosec (omeprazole)

With very similar pathways that deliver similar results, the major difference between these two medications is that Prilosec has been around for longer, and, therefore, has an extended safety record. Both of these medications are PPIs, and are effective at treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and reducing the symptoms of ulcers and/or gastrointestinal bleeding.

Zantac (ranitidine) vs. Prilosec (omeprazole)

While these medications perform similar functions, the way that they interact with the body is different. Prilosec is a PPI and is taken before meals to provide support and balance for the stomach from the acid production following meals. Zantac, on the other hand, is an H2 receptor blocker, which is not as effective as PPIs such as Prilosec, but offers the best protection at night. Therefore, for optimal relief, the treatment is less about Zantac vs. Prilosec and more about a combination of the two.

Protonix (pantoprazole) vs. Prilosec (omeprazole)

Both of these medications are effective at treating the symptoms of over production of stomach acid, by PPI. The main difference between these two medications is that you can get Prilosec over the counter, while Protonix is a prescription medication. Another difference is that Protonix comes in a variety of delayed-release tablets, which offer longer lasting relief and allows you to take less pills throughout the day.