I have been taking citalopram, mefenamic acid and omeprazole but have now been prescribed clopidogrel and simvastatin after a recent TIA.

[margarets]

I understand omeprazole reduces the effectiveness of clpidogrel. Should I stop taking the omeprazole?

[Tipper]

Hi, that sounds a complicated set if medications!

I can't comment on the interactions but I do know omeprazole affected me more than it was supposed to.

Whilst taking omeprazole I suffered from tiredness and a low red blood count for some years and all my GP could suggest was to send me for invasive tests. Nothing was ever found.

Following a bit of research I found that omeprazole actually lowers the red blood count and causes fatigue when taken long term. (Google it and you will find various medical reports on the subject.)

As omeprazole was only being taken to guard against ulcers due to the type of other drugs I was taking I stopped taking the omeprazole and ensured I only took my medication with food which helps reduce the chance of ulcers. Amazingly within few weeks my blood count was back to normal! My GP still doesn't understand what happened to make the change!

I did suffer a little heartburn for a while but this was countered with indigestion tablets and within a couple of weeks my digestion had accommodated the change and the heartburn went. I think my digestion was actually producing more acid to counter the effect of the omeprazole and hence the heartburn when I stopped taking it.

All I'm really saying is long term use of omeprazole is not good and perhaps not fully understood by those prescribing it and you are right to be wary of it. Good luck with understanding your other drug interactions.

[nissanjean in reply to Tipper]

`Long term use of Omeprazole is not advised due to the serious side effects.It is a PPI.