Prilosec Australia — How to buy, use, and stay safe

Prilosec (omeprazole) is a common medicine for heartburn, reflux, and ulcers. In Australia you can find omeprazole as both a pharmacist‑only product and a prescription drug. That makes it easy to get short-term relief, but also means you should check how much and how long to take it.

Typical OTC packs in Australia contain 20 mg tablets sold for short courses. Doctors often prescribe higher doses or longer courses for ulcers or severe reflux. Don’t stretch short OTC use into months without talking to your GP — long-term use can lead to low magnesium, reduced B12 levels, and higher fracture risk in some people.

Where to buy safely

Buy from a registered Australian pharmacy or a trusted online pharmacy that asks for a prescription when needed. Look for clear contact details, a physical address, and a pharmacist phone line. Avoid websites that sell prescription drugs without asking for a valid script or that offer extremely low prices — those are red flags for counterfeit or unsafe products.

If you consider importing Prilosec, know Australia’s personal import rules. Most people can import a limited supply for personal use with a valid prescription. Check current TGA guidance or ask your pharmacist before ordering from overseas.

Dosage, risks, and when to see a doctor

Common dosing is 20 mg once daily for reflux or heartburn. For more serious conditions a GP may prescribe 40 mg or adjust frequency. Take omeprazole before the first meal of the day for best effect. If your symptoms don’t improve in 2–4 weeks, see your doctor — persistent symptoms need a check for ulcers, H. pylori, or reflux disease.

Watch for common side effects like headache, nausea, or diarrhea. Rare but serious issues include severe allergic reactions, muscle cramps from low magnesium, or unexplained weight loss. Omeprazole can interact with certain drugs — for example, it may reduce clopidogrel’s effect — so disclose all medicines you take.

Quick tips: use the lowest effective dose, avoid mixing with unnecessary supplements, and get regular reviews if you stay on PPIs longer than three months. Keep tablets in original packaging and check batch details if buying online. When in doubt, call your local pharmacist — they can confirm dose, side effects, and whether you need to see a doctor.

Generic omeprazole is the same active drug as Prilosec and usually costs less. In Australia, generic versions must meet the same standards, so buying a generic from a trusted pharmacy is a good way to save. Pay attention to strength (10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg), number of tablets, and whether the product is enteric‑coated. Store tablets in a cool, dry place and check expiry dates; damaged or discolored tablets may be unsafe. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have liver disease, talk to your doctor before taking omeprazole — some situations need special advice or alternative treatments. Keep a list of all medicines to help your prescriber spot interactions.

Stay informed and cautious.