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Does Omeprazole inhibit absorption of vitamins and minerals?

Posted , 4 users are following.

maisie05
maisie05

I've been taking Omeprazole for 18 months for gastritis. I have also been prescribed with iron, ferrous fumerate, as my ferritin level is low. Below 12. I can't seem to get my iron levels up and am always drained and tired. I have a blood test every six months. And I try to have a good diet of iron rich foods. I take the Omeprazole first thing in the morning as directed. Then usually have vitamins and iron after breakfast. Has anyone experienced Omeprazole inhibiting absorption of iron? 

0 likes, 9 replies

9 Replies

  • katea007
    katea007 maisie05

    Posted

    Yes I suffered this too and low vit d and low phosphorus.  I dont know if you can improve your levels while on omeprazole..... ask your GP if there is any alternative.   
    • maisie05
      maisie05 katea007

      Posted

      Thanks. Yes I do need to discuss with GP. I'm not sure how much I need the omeprazole. Guess I'll know if I stop. Better to get iron levels up and feel stronger.

      I've wondered about taking the iron later in the day with evening meal.10 hours after omeprazole.

    • katea007
      katea007 maisie05

      Posted

      My problem was actually low acid as a result of long term anxiety but as low acid gives the same symptoms as having to much acid I had actually been wrongly treat with antiacids. I was severely low with many vital nutrients and vitamins as a result of the wrong diagnosis. I was suffering from hypochlorhydria. (Low acid). The omeprazole was the totally wrong treatment for me but as the symptoms are feelings of indigestion the GP must have thought that I needed antiacids!! I had previously suffered from h pylori too. It would be worth being tested for that with the gp too!

      I do know that avoiding calcium at the same time as taking iron can help with regards absorption. Also it's good to take vit c with the iron to assist absorption.

      Thank you

      Karen

    • maisie05
      maisie05 katea007

      Posted

      It does get quite confusing knowing what to take and when! I try to avoid dairy when taking iron and increase Vit C. I've had palpitations which can be a symptom of anaemia, menopause and a side effect of omeprazole! Very confusing knowing what to treat first.

  • julie37508
    julie37508 maisie05

    Posted

    I was on Omeprazole for 18 years, as best I can figure.  I never had low vitamin levels when tested, although I always supplemented with magnesium, and a few months back, I had my vitamin D levels checked, and they were far above maximum levels.  I am, however, off it, weaning slowly.  I do, also, have to continue taking Rantinidine, daily.  I have always have an acidic stomach, and without something, I am miserable.  It makes me sad that the one thing that made me feel wonderful, with zero reflux and heartburn, is now something to fear.
    • maisie05
      maisie05 julie37508

      Posted

      Thanks for your reply.

      It's the only explanation I have for the low iron apart from heavy periods. But I've been taking iron supplements for over a year.

      Why did you feel you had to stop taking the omeprazole?

  • julie37508
    julie37508 maisie05

    Posted

    My doctor suggested it.  She put me on the Rantinidne, but I started, and stopped it, went back on, and weaned myself slowly for a month.  Now I take the Rantinidine every day, 300 mgs.
  • Barretts
    Barretts maisie05

    Posted

    Iron malabsorption can indeed be due to induced hypochlorhydria from large dose of acid suppressants over a long period.

    If you visit the free book / website: www DownWithAcid org uk, you will find a chapter on induced hypochlorhydria.

    • maisie05
      maisie05 Barretts

      Posted

      Thank you Barretts. I was hoping you would respond. You are very knowledgeable on this subject. 
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