Can I take Omeprazole and Viagra together?

Why this happens

Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid, and Viagra is a PDE5 inhibitor. While some drugs that change stomach acidity can affect how other medicines are absorbed, studies have shown that omeprazole does not have a meaningful impact on the way the body processes sildenafil. Both drugs are processed by the liver, but they use different pathways (enzymes) and do not interfere with one another.

What you should do

You can take these two medications together. You do not need to change the timing of your doses or the amount you take. However, as with any medication, if you notice any unusual side effects like severe dizziness, chest pain, or a very long-lasting erection, you should seek medical advice.

Important precautions

Heart conditions or use of nitrates

Never take this medicine if you are using nitrate medications (such as glyceryl trinitrate or isosorbide mononitrate) for chest pain. Combining them can cause a sudden, life-threatening drop in blood pressure.

Vitamin B12 deficiency or long-term use

Long-term use can hide the symptoms of stomach cancer and may increase the risk of bone fractures or serious magnesium deficiency. If you need this medicine for more than a year, your doctor must monitor you regularly.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol can make it harder to get an erection. To get the maximum benefit from your medication, it is advised not to drink large amounts of alcohol before taking it. Alcohol also increases the risk of side effects like dizziness or headaches.

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice can increase the level of sildenafil in your blood, which makes side effects like headaches, flushing, or low blood pressure more likely. It is best to avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while using this medicine.

High-fat meals

If you take Viagra with a heavy or high-fat meal (such as a cheeseburger and chips), the medicine may take longer to start working. For the fastest effect, it is best taken on an empty stomach or with a light meal.

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.