Can I take Gabapentin and Omeprazole together?

Why this happens

Omeprazole reduces the amount of acid in your stomach. Gabapentin relies on certain conditions in the digestive tract to be absorbed properly, and the change in stomach acidity caused by omeprazole can interfere with this process, leading to lower levels of the medication in your bloodstream.

What you should do

For most people, this interaction is minor and does not require a change in treatment. However, if you notice that your symptoms (like nerve pain) are not as well-controlled after starting omeprazole, speak to your doctor. You may wish to take gabapentin at least two hours apart from your omeprazole dose to minimise any impact on absorption.

Important precautions

Respiratory depression

Gabapentin can cause serious breathing difficulties, especially if you have an existing lung condition or take other medicines that cause drowsiness (like opioids). Seek immediate medical help if you experience slow or shallow breathing.

Suicidal ideation

A small number of people taking gabapentin have experienced suicidal thoughts or behaviours. You must monitor your mood closely and contact your doctor immediately if you notice any sudden changes in how you feel.

Abrupt discontinuation

Do not stop taking gabapentin suddenly. Doing so can cause serious side effects, including an increase in seizure frequency or severe withdrawal symptoms. Your dose must be reduced gradually.

Severe diarrhoea

Contact your doctor immediately if you develop severe or persistent watery diarrhoea, as omeprazole can increase the risk of a serious bowel infection called C. difficile.

Lupus-like skin reactions - omeprazole

Seek medical advice if you develop a skin rash, especially in areas exposed to the sun, as this may be a sign of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE).

Masking symptoms of gastric cancer

Omeprazole can hide the symptoms of more serious stomach conditions. You must tell your doctor if you experience unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, or difficulty swallowing while taking this medicine.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking gabapentin can increase the risk of side effects, such as extreme sleepiness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol until you know how the medicine affects you.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking omeprazole. Alcohol can increase the amount of acid your stomach produces, which may worsen your symptoms or make the medicine less effective. Additionally, both alcohol and omeprazole can irritate the stomach lining.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Cola)

While there is no direct chemical interaction, caffeine can increase stomach acid production. Since omeprazole is used to reduce stomach acid, consuming high amounts of caffeine may counteract the benefits of the medicine and worsen your symptoms.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.