Prilosec for Toddler

Prilosec is one of the most prescribed drugs in the world.

Zantac, as Koren mentions, is an H2 antagonist. Prilosec is a proton pump inhibitor (the current form is called Nexium as they were able to isolate the active part of the molecule to make it stronger). Zantac is an older medication, largely regarded as less effective and not proven to be any safer.

As your pharmacist regarding its use in children his age. I would have NO reservations about using it in my own children. Most side effects are minor, but you may be able to find more information specifically about the pediatric population vs. the majority of its use which is adult.

Good luck. If you have a choice, I'd always recommend a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) over an H2 antagonist like Zantac, Axid, etc. because they are simply more effective for more patients.

My second was on prilosec from age 3 months to 5 months. There were no bad side effects. I was worried b/c he was so young but it was a low dose and it was a version for kids. He had GERD and it helped. I live in Switzerland where they do not hand out medicine easily and try natural solutions before anything. I also like it because there is no fear of malpractice...and the experts (the doctors) give their advice. Each doctor has their knowledge and experience and some may differ in opinion, so as another pediatrician what he thinks. Find one you can trust and then trust your tummy. You are the boss.

My son took it as a baby for reflux with no side effects. Zanatc did not work for him so he was switched to Prilosec. He still threw up but was not as uncomfortable. Good luck!

my dd was diagnosed with GERD. and the baby zantac but they generic version was perscribed for her. it is more to help with any erosion that the vomiting can cause. It does not help with the vomitting itself. The acids in our stomachs are very cerosive(sp). and dont worry they out grow it. gl