Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor. This group of drugs work by reducing acid secretion in the stomach. They are put in Category B by the FDA except Omeprazole which is in Category C.

The proton pump inhibitors in Category B are esomeprazole, lansaprazole, pantoprazole and rabeprazole. Omeprazole is in Category C because there is insufficient human studies and a trial that used doses up to 69 times the normal human dose caused death of the foetus in rats and rabbits. There has also been rare reports of congenital defects in infants of mothers who used omeprazole during pregnancy. There is, however, no clear evidence that omeprazole was the cause.

Although these drugs cross the placental barrier there is no suggestion that they can cause harm to the foetus.

Unless your symptoms are severe, do not take any medication during pregnancy. Be careful with any medication you take during pregnancy. If you have to take any medication, be guided by your doctor.

Dr. Phil Hariram.