Omeprazole

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for treatment and prevention of equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS); treatment of gastric ulcers in dogs and cats. Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) — omeprazole. Mechanism: prodrug activated by acid in parietal cell canaliculi → active sulfenamide covalently binds H+/K+-ATPase proton pump → irreversibly inhibits HCl secretion. Long duration despite short plasma half-life (irreversible binding). Equine-specific formulations required due to poor bioavailability of human preparations in horses. Only FDA-approved EGUS treatment. Key information PPI — most effective ulcer treatment in horses. Must be given on empty stomach 30–60 min before feeding. Gastrogard: labeled for treatment; Ulcergard: labeled for prevention. Do not crush enteric-coated formulations. Full course required — do not stop early.

Equine oral paste: administer via dose syringe on an empty stomach, 30–60 min before feeding. Set dose ring to body weight. Once-daily dosing. Human PPI formulations (capsules, extra-label): Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. on empty stomach. Do not crush enteric-coated granules. IV (pantoprazole): see pantoprazole entry. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, ideally on an empty stomach. If it is close to the next dose time, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Consistent dosing is important for ulcer healing.

Generally well tolerated. GI: diarrhea, soft feces (uncommon). Hypomagnesemia (prolonged use). Gastric bacterial overgrowth risk with chronic use. Rebound hyperacidity (with abrupt discontinuation after prolonged therapy). Masking of more serious GI pathology. Drug interactions: reduced absorption of drugs requiring acidic environment (ketoconazole, iron, B12).

For animals Horses: use equine-specific formulations — human OTC preparations have poor oral bioavailability in horses. Treat minimum 28 days for gastric ulcer healing. Drug interaction: reduces absorption of ketoconazole, itraconazole, iron supplements. Prolonged use: gastric bacterial overgrowth possible; rebound hyperacidity on abrupt discontinuation — taper if used >8 weeks. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Proton pump inhibitor — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling paste. Keep out of reach of children.

Contact your veterinarian. Omeprazole overdose causes GI signs (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) and is rarely serious. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.