Our baby is taking omeprazole for her reflux. I've read several warnings about PPIs, what do you think about this option?

Question

Our baby is 10 weeks old. He has a lot of internal reflux that makes him cough and spit up, especially when he's on his back, which affects his sleep. This is the first medication we have tried for this problem. Thank you for your answer. I was also wondering how long it takes to see an improvement after starting the medication.

Jean-Félix Côté · Accepted Answer

Hello, thank you for your question To reassure you, PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) are widely used in pediatrics to treat reflux. They are often a first- or second-line treatment Generally, the most recognized treatments for this indication are H2 anti-histamines, such as ranitidine (Zantac) and other molecules of the same family. However, there is currently a stock-out of all the molecules in this class, which probably explains why omeprazole was chosen first for your baby The goal of reflux treatment in children is to decrease irritability, prevent vomiting and avoid weight loss. In general, PPIs are well tolerated and associated with few side effects, mostly constipation and/or diarrhea and headaches. They are usually used transiently for a few months as the condition tends to improve with age. It is especially with long term use that can have more serious side effects. Do you have any particular concerns you would like to discuss? If you have any other questions please do not hesitate to contact us Jean-Felix Côté, pharmacist The response to the medication may vary slightly from baby to baby. The molecule is most effective in reducing acidity around day 5. It remains to be seen whether this will translate into an immediate reduction in the child's symptoms