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Pronunciation
GAS-troe-gard
Common Drug Name
Omeprazole
What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering GastroGard?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your horse is taking GastroGard. Also discuss what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain what else can be done to help prevent or treat ulcers in your horse.
Tell your veterinarian if your horse may be pregnant or is nursing a foal, or has liver or kidney disease.
Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your horse is taking, and also if your horse has had any reactions to previous medications.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.
What is the most important information I should know?
GastroGard needs to be given daily according to your veterinarian's instructions. Ulcers may recur or worsen if the medication is not given according to the treatment schedule.
Who should not take it?
Not for use in horses hypersensitive (allergic) to omeprazole or similar medications. Use with caution in horses with liver or kidney disease. The safety of omeprazole in pregnant and lactating mares has not been determined. Do not use in pregnant or lactating horses unless benefits outweigh the risks. Avoid
use in foals less than 4 weeks of age.
What side effects may be seen when taking GastroGard?
No adverse side effects have been reported by the manufacturer. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any possible side effects, or if the signs of gastric ulcers continue or worsen. In adult horses these signs may include decreased appetite, weight loss, mild colic, poor performance, depression, lying down more than normal, diarrhea, accumulation of fluid under the belly, and anemia with signs of pale gums and weakness. In foals you may also see teeth grinding, drooling, weakness, and nursing for only short periods of time.
If your horse experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Do not store at temperatures higher than 86°F. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Should overdose occur, you may see colic, diarrhea, or anemia, in which case, you may observe pale gums and weakness. If you know or suspect your horse has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your horse, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What should I avoid when giving my pet GastroGard?
Notify your veterinarian of any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, your horse is taking while receiving omeprazole. Consult your veterinarian before using omeprazole with diazepam, phenytoin, warfarin, ketoconazole, ampicillin, supplements containing iron salts, or any drugs that could depress the bone marrow, since interactions may occur.
Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication. | 
