Mepraz Mechanism of Action

Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics: Absorption/Distribution: Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor and thus prevents secretion of gastric acid. It is rapidly absorbed, but to a variable extent following oral administration. Omeprazole absorption is not affected by food and it is acid-labile. Omeprazole bioavailability is 30% to 40%, it increases slightly upon repeat administration. In the elderly patients and in patients with impaired hepatic function omeprazole bioavailability may increase, but is not markedly affected in patients with renal impairment. Omeprazole is highly bound to plasma proteins about 95%.
Metabolism/Excretion: Omeprazole is extensively metabolized by the liver. Some metabolites have been identified. These metabolites have inadequate or no antisecretory activity. The elimination half-life from plasma is short at about 0.5 to 3 hours while the acid inhibitory effect is much longer that lasts more than 24 hours. Once the omeprazole is discontinued, secretory activity returns over 3 to 5 days. Omeprazole is rapidly eliminated; approximately 77% is eliminated in the urine. The remainder of the dose is excreted in the feces.