Perrigo Heartburn & Acid Reflux 20mg Capsules 14 Pack

What Are Perrigo Omeprazole 20mg Capsules?

If you've ever felt that familiar burning sensation rising up from your stomach after a meal, you'll know how uncomfortable heartburn can be. Omeprazole 20mg capsules are one of the most widely used over-the-counter treatments for heartburn and acid reflux in the UK. Perrigo's 14-pack offers a convenient, cost-effective way to manage these symptoms without needing a prescription. Each capsule contains 20mg of omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that works directly on the stomach lining to reduce acid production at its source. You can also browse our full range of indigestion treatments if you're looking for additional options.

Heartburn affects a significant proportion of adults in the UK, with many experiencing symptoms regularly. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid travels back up into the oesophagus, causing that characteristic burning discomfort. Omeprazole has been used clinically for decades and is well-established as an effective short-term treatment for these symptoms.

How Do Perrigo Heartburn Capsules Work in the Body?

Omeprazole belongs to a class of medicines called proton pump inhibitors. Rather than simply neutralising acid already present in the stomach — as antacids do — it targets the mechanism that produces acid in the first place. Here's how it works step by step:

• Omeprazole is absorbed from the gut into the bloodstream after you swallow the capsule.
• It travels to the parietal cells in the stomach lining, which are responsible for secreting hydrochloric acid.
• It irreversibly binds to and blocks the hydrogen-potassium ATPase enzyme — commonly called the "proton pump."
• With the pump blocked, significantly less acid is produced, reducing the acidity of stomach contents.
• This lower acid environment allows the oesophagus and stomach lining to recover from irritation.

Because omeprazole works at the source of acid production, its effects tend to last longer than antacids. It typically takes one to four days of regular use to reach its full effect, so it's best suited to ongoing symptom management rather than instant relief.

Who Is Perrigo Heartburn & Acid Reflux 20mg Suitable For?

These capsules are intended for adults aged 18 and over who experience frequent heartburn or acid reflux symptoms. They're particularly useful if you find that antacids provide only short-term relief and you need something that works over a longer period. That said, they're not appropriate for everyone.

This product may be suitable for you if:

• You are an adult aged 18 or over experiencing heartburn at least twice a week.
• You have been previously diagnosed with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and your doctor has recommended a PPI.
• You need short-term relief (up to 14 days) from acid reflux symptoms.
• You have not found adequate relief from antacid-based treatments alone.

It is not suitable for children under 18, people with difficulty swallowing, or those who have experienced unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, or blood in their stools — these symptoms require urgent medical assessment.

How Does Omeprazole Compare to Other Heartburn Treatments?

How Should You Store Perrigo Heartburn Capsules?

Store these capsules below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep them in their original packaging and out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack. If you're managing multiple health conditions and storing several medicines, it's worth keeping everything organised — you might also find our vitamins and supplements range useful for supporting your overall wellbeing alongside treatment.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is Perrigo Heartburn & Acid Reflux 20mg and What Is It Used For?

Perrigo Heartburn & Acid Reflux 20mg Capsules contain omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor licensed for the short-term OTC treatment of reflux symptoms in adults. It is used to relieve the burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid travelling back up into the oesophagus — a condition commonly known as acid reflux or heartburn. It may also help with the sour taste in the mouth and discomfort after eating that many people with reflux experience. This product is for adults aged 18 and over and should be used for no longer than 14 days at a time without medical supervision.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Perrigo Heartburn Capsules?

Before taking these capsules, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not take this medicine if any of the following apply:

• You are allergic to omeprazole, any other PPI (such as lansoprazole or pantoprazole), or any of the capsule's other ingredients.
• You are under 18 years of age.
• You are taking medicines containing nelfinavir (used to treat HIV infection).
• You have experienced unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, persistent vomiting, or blood in your vomit or stools — seek urgent medical advice.
• You have severe liver problems (unless under medical supervision).

The following medicines may interact with omeprazole. Tell your pharmacist or doctor if you are taking:

• Clopidogrel (a blood-thinning medicine) — omeprazole may reduce its effectiveness.
• Methotrexate — omeprazole may increase methotrexate levels in the blood.
• Warfarin or other anticoagulants — monitoring may be required.
• Ketoconazole, itraconazole, or other antifungals — absorption may be affected.
• Digoxin — omeprazole may increase digoxin levels slightly.
• Cilostazol, diazepam, or phenytoin — plasma levels may be altered.

How Should You Use Perrigo Heartburn & Acid Reflux 20mg Capsules?

Always use this medicine exactly as described in the patient information leaflet. If you are unsure, check with your pharmacist. Follow these steps:

1. Take one capsule by mouth once daily.
2. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water — do not crush, chew, or open it.
3. Take it 30 to 60 minutes before a meal, ideally in the morning.
4. Continue for up to 14 days or until symptoms resolve, whichever comes first.
5. If symptoms have not improved after 14 days, stop taking the capsules and consult your doctor.

If you're also managing other digestive concerns, you may find it helpful to explore our IBS and cramps range for complementary support.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Perrigo Heartburn Capsules?

Like all medicines, omeprazole can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most are mild and resolve on their own.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

• Headache
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Constipation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Flatulence

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Skin rash or itching
• Peripheral oedema (swelling of the ankles or feet)
• Disturbed sleep

Stop taking the capsules and seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. Long-term use of PPIs has been associated with low magnesium levels and an increased risk of bone fractures — this is more relevant to prescription-strength, long-term use rather than a 14-day OTC course.

How Should You Store Perrigo Heartburn & Acid Reflux 20mg Capsules?

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of your medicine. Follow these guidelines:

• Store below 25°C in a dry place.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Store in the original blister packaging until use.
• Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.
• Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused capsules to your pharmacy.

If you're looking for further digestive health support or want to manage related symptoms, our sickness and nausea range may also be of interest.