Prilosec OTC Question

Dear Ask The Doctor: My ENT started me on PRILOSEC OTC just as a precaution prior to and after removing a Benign Vocal Cord Polyp...in case the polyp was caused by Reflux. I told him I had coughing Up Mucous after Eating sometimes especially warm food..so he thought it was a good idea. Last visit with him..he said CORDS look healed..and I complained that Prilosec was not helping Mucous and causing Stomach Discomfort and Loose Stools. He said it was safe to stop Prilosec if it wasn't helping and causing a common side effect like loose stools.. I am scared as I have read so much on internet regarding Rebound Effects when going Cold Turkey off of PPI's like Prilosec after longer than 4 weeks of use... Is this True...if so...how do I get off this pill that is not helping anything in the first place?

Dear Larry: I understand you concern about going off Prilosec. This drug works by blocking acid production in the stomach. This medication is known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It is used to treat acid-related stomach and throat esophagus problem.  I agree with you that there are side effects such as in any other medication and there has been rebound reflux reported after going off this medication, however this does not mean that it will happen to you.

Usually this medication is well tolerated and should not give any problems after stopping it. You could increase the chances of not having reflux by avoiding peppermint, coffee, chocolate, spicy food especially at dinner.

Eating at least two hours before going to bed and certainly drinking plenty of fluids helps too. I wish you the best.