Description

Omeprazole Na, Lyophilized Powder is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) provided in a sterile, freeze-dried powder form for intravenous (IV) administration. This formulation is primarily for use in a hospital setting for patients who are unable to take oral medications. It contains omeprazole sodium as the active ingredient and must be reconstituted with a suitable solvent before it can be administered.

Indication

This form of omeprazole is used as an alternative to oral therapy for the short-term treatment of various conditions. Its main indications include:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Including the healing of erosive esophagitis.
• Peptic Ulcer Disease: To treat duodenal and gastric ulcers.
• Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: A condition that causes the stomach to produce too much acid.
• Prevention of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in critically ill patients.

Mechanism of Action

Omeprazole belongs to a class of medications that suppress stomach acid secretion. Its mechanism is highly specific and irreversible:

1. Prodrug: Omeprazole is a prodrug, which means it’s inactive until it’s activated in the body. It is a weak base that is concentrated and converted to its active form in the highly acidic environment of the parietal cells in the stomach lining.
2. Inhibition: Once activated, omeprazole covalently binds to the H+/K+-ATPase enzyme system, which is also known as the “proton pump.” This enzyme is the final step in the production of gastric acid.
3. Result: By irreversibly blocking this pump, omeprazole effectively suppresses both basal (resting) and stimulated acid secretion, regardless of the stimulus. This provides potent and long-lasting relief from acid-related symptoms and allows damaged tissues to heal.