Why Aciphex instead of Prilosec OTC?
I am taking Aciphex for H. pylori (bacteria that causes ulcers). Is there any reason I should not be taking Prilosec OTC instead? They are both PPIs but with different active ingredients, and they work the same way right? Does Aciphex have characteristics that are better for fighting H. pylori? Or is this just to help my doctor get more money?
March 12th, 2009 at 5:05 pm
You doctor doesn't have stock in the companies does he? If not, then he won't make any more money prescribing one than the other unless the pharma co is giving him a kickback. The doc's decision is based on his best information. Ask him why he prescribed one not the other? He probably has a valid reason -most likely strength. I'd ask your pharmacist about the difference. If he says none, then take the OTC if you want. BTW – this is not an Alternative Medicine question. We don't do drugs here. Maybe you'd like to ask about how to alternatively deal with your h. pylori here. That would be an Alternative Medicine question.
March 12th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
The differences are negilgible. You can safely use whichever is less expensive for you. (If you have insurance, the prescription Aciphex may be cheaper, otherwise, Prilosec OTC is cheaper.)
March 12th, 2009 at 5:25 pm
No real difference in the medications. Neither will make your doctor any more money by the way.