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Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking omeprazole - Brand names: Losec, Losec MUPS, Pyrocalm

Omeprazole and pregnancy

Omeprazole is safe to take during pregnancy.

However, it may be better to try to treat indigestion without taking medicine. You could try eating smaller meals more often, and avoiding fatty and spicy foods. Sitting up straight when you eat will also take the pressure off your stomach.

If you get symptoms at night, you could prop your head and shoulders up when you go to bed. This helps to stop stomach acid coming up while you sleep.

If lifestyle changes do not work then omeprazole may be recommended for you.

Omeprazole and breastfeeding

If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy it is OK to take omeprazole while you’re breastfeeding.

There is a little information available which shows that omeprazole passes into breast milk in tiny amounts, but your baby will not absorb a lot into their body.

It is unlikely that omeprazole will cause any side effects in your baby.

Omeprazole and fertility

There's no clear evidence to suggest that taking omeprazole will reduce fertility in either men or women.

But speak to a pharmacist or your doctor if you're trying to get pregnant. They may want to review your treatment.

Non-urgent advice: Tell your doctor if you're:

  • trying to get pregnant
  • pregnant
  • breastfeeding

Find out more about how omeprazole can affect you and your baby during pregnancy on the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website.

Page last reviewed: 18 November 2021
Next review due: 18 November 2024