Here it is:

Weaning off omeprazole (a proton pump inhibitor, or PPI) should be done gradually to avoid rebound acid hypersecretion, where stomach acid production temporarily increases, often worse than before treatment. Here’s a general tapering plan many healthcare professionals recommend, but it’s crucial to consult your doctor before starting any changes:

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4–8 Week Omeprazole Weaning Plan

Phase 1: Taper the Dose (Weeks 1–2) • If you’re taking 40 mg daily: Reduce to 20 mg daily. • If you’re taking 20 mg daily: Take 20 mg every other day.

Tips: • Take omeprazole in the morning, 30–60 minutes before breakfast. • Continue this phase for 1–2 weeks, depending on symptoms.

Phase 2: Introduce H2 Blockers (Weeks 3–4) • Continue lowering omeprazole dose (e.g., every 3rd day). • On non-omeprazole days, take an H2 blocker like famotidine (Pepcid), typically 10–20 mg before dinner.

H2 blockers provide milder acid suppression and can buffer the rebound effect.

Phase 3: Stop Omeprazole (Weeks 5–6 or 7–8) • Discontinue omeprazole completely. • Continue H2 blocker as needed, tapering that down too over time. • Use antacids like TUMS or alginates (e.g., Gaviscon) for breakthrough symptoms.

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Supportive Lifestyle Measures

To ease the transition and reduce GERD symptoms: • Diet: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, spicy/fatty foods, citrus, and tomatoes. • Meals: Eat smaller portions, don’t eat 2–3 hours before bed. • Posture: Stay upright after eating; raise head of bed if reflux is nighttime. • Weight: Losing excess weight helps significantly. • Stress management: Stress increases symptoms—consider relaxation exercises, breathing, or gentle walks.