You should not take this medication if you are allergic to omeprazole or to any other benzimidazole medication such as albendazole (Albenza), or mebendazole (Vermox).
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take Risek if you have liver disease or heart disease. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests.
Do not use over-the-counter Risek without the advice of a doctor if you have:
• trouble or pain with swallowing;
• bloody or black stools;
• vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds;
• heartburn that has lasted for over 3 months;
• frequent chest pain;
• heartburn with wheezing;
• unexplained weight loss;
• nausea or vomiting; or
• stomach pain.
Some conditions are treated with a combination of Risek and antibiotics. Use all medications as directed by your doctor. Read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each medication. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without your doctor's advice.
Taking a proton pump inhibitor such as Risek may increase your risk of bone fracture in the hip, wrist, or spine. This effect has occurred mostly in people who have taken the medication long term or at high doses, and in those who are age 50 and older. It is not clear whether Risek is the actual cause of an increased risk of fracture. Before you take this medication, tell your doctor if you have osteoporosis or osteopenia (low bone mineral density).
