Compare omeprazole vs. Alka-Seltzer

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Treats heartburn and excess release of stomach acid.

Prilosec (omeprazole) gives you long-lasting heartburn relief but has some risks if used long term.

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4.0/ 5 average rating with 1167 reviewsforomeprazole
Relieves symptoms of indigestion and pain

Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) provides quick relief for heartburn, upset stomach, headaches, and general pain. However, you have to take it a few times a day to continue getting relief of your symptoms.

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3.9/ 5 average rating with 1055 reviewsforAlka-Seltzer
Upsides
  • Prilosec (omeprazole) lasts longer (up to 72 hours) than other classes of acid reducers (like Zantac, Pepcid, or Tums).
  • Only take once or twice daily.
  • Can take together with a quick-acting antacid (like Maalox or Tums) for quick relief.
  • Generic and over-the-counter options available.
  • Safe to use in children ages 1 or older.
  • Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) is a great option if you have an upset stomach and a headache or body aches at the same time.
  • Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) works quickly to relieve symptoms.
  • Available over the counter without a prescription.
  • Also, available as generic and is fairly cheap.
Downsides
  • Takes up to an hour to start noticing the effects of Prilosec (omeprazole).
  • Prilosec (omeprazole) can interact with other drugs. Let your doctor and pharmacist know what medications you're taking before starting Prilosec (omeprazole).
  • Long-term use of Prilosec (omeprazole) can put you at risk for many health issues such as osteoporosis, low magnesium or vitamin B12 levels, and rebound acid secretion (where your body starts to create more acid than before after stoping Prilosec (omeprazole)).
  • The effects of this medication don't last very long. Other medicines, like Zantac (H2 blockers) and omeprazole (proton pump inhibitors), work better and last longer.
  • Because this medicine contains aspirin, it raises the risk of bleeding, especially if you take any other blood thinning medicines.
  • People who are allergic to aspirin can't use this medication.
  • May not like the taste or fizz.
  • Kids or teenagers should not use Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) unless instructed by a doctor.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Powder
  • Effervescent tablet
Price
Lowest price
$11.00
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Reviews
1167 reviews so far
80%
saidit'sworth it
59%
saiditworked well
8%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Prilosec (omeprazole)?

Leave a review
1055 reviews so far
81%
saidit'sworth it
52%
saiditworked well
8%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)?

Leave a review
Side effects
11possible side effects
  • Headache
    7%
  • Abdominal pain
    5%
  • Nausea
    4%
  • Diarrhea
    4%
  • Vomiting
    3%
  • Flatulence
    3%
  • Acid regurgitation
    2%
  • Upper respiratory infection
    2%
  • Constipation
    2%
  • Dizziness
    2%
  • Rash
    2%
See more detailed side effects
The Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
  • Risk of cancer
  • Lupus
    • History of cutaneous or systemic lupus erythematosus
  • Severe diarrhea associated with C.difficile infection
    • Being hospitalized
    • Antibiotic use
  • Bone fractures
    • Osteoporosis
    • Using high medication doses
    • Long-term therapy (1 year or more)
    • Use of other medications that weaken bones
  • Low Vitamin B12 and Magnesium
    • Taking water pills (Magnesium)
    • Women (Vitamin B12)
    • Over the age of 30 (Vitamin B12)
  • Kidney damage
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Taking the wrong medication
    • Not reading the drug label
  • Brain damage or death from Reye's Syndrome
    • Children 18 years or younger recovering from viral infections
  • High blood sodium levels
    • Current kidney disease
    • Dialysis
    • Age 65 or older
    • Hyperparathyroidism
    • Use of other medicines that can cause kidney damage
  • May worsen heart or kidney problems
    • Congestive heart failure (CHF)
    • High blood pressure
    • Current kidney disease
    • Kidney dialysis
  • Stomach Bleeding
    • History of stomach bleeding or ulcers
    • Age 60 or older
    • Also taking other blood thinners
    • Drinking 3 or more alcoholic drinks a day
  • Harm to unborn babies
    • Pregnancy
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Prilosec (omeprazole)
Learn more about Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)