Omeprazole for Children

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Omeprazole is a type of medication called a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI). PPIs are used to treat gastro-oesphageal reflux disease, commonly known as “Reflux”.

Omeprazole is the preferred PPI for use in children in Glasgow.

There are many different formulations of Omeprazole in use.

We recommend 2 different types of Omeprazole depending on the age of your child:

• From birth your child can have Omeprazole as a Multi-Unit Pellet System (MUPS)
• Once weaned (usually from 7 months) your child can have Omeprazole as a capsule

• MUPS can be a challenge to give.
• In our experience, the most effective way to give Omeprazole to babies is using MUPS.
• The following technique is the easiest way to give Omeprazole MUPS:

• Push the fluid in to your child’s mouth
  
  
• Push in small amounts (0.2ml) each time
  
  
• Keep doing this until the full amount given
  
  
• Aim for the inside of your child’s cheek (next to where the back teeth will eventually be)
  
  
• It is unlikely that the full dose will be swallowed. This is normal.
  
  
• The recommended dose for your child takes this in to account.
  
  
• Providing that most of the dose is taken, the amount of Omeprazole your child takes will be safe and effective.
  
  

	Open capsule

	There are small balls inside the capsule. This is the active medicine. The balls have a special coating. Do not crush them.

	Pour the balls on to a spoon of a thick liquid such as jam or yoghurt.

	Gently cover the balls. Insert the spoon in to your child’s mouth.

• Encourage your child to swallow the contents without crushing the balls.
  
  
• It can be difficult for younger children not to try and chew.
  
  
• In most cases, this will not result in the balls being crushed