What type of medication is Omeprazole classified as?

Omeprazole is classified as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). This type of medication works by blocking the proton pump in the stomach lining, which is responsible for producing gastric acid. As a result, it effectively reduces the amount of acid in the stomach, providing relief from conditions related to excessive stomach acid production such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Proton pump inhibitors like Omeprazole are distinct from other types of medications. For instance, antacids neutralize existing stomach acid but do not directly affect the production of acid. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and do not have a role in acid secretion. Antihistamines primarily block histamine receptors, usually to reduce allergic reactions, and are also unrelated to the control of gastric acid production. Therefore, identifying Omeprazole as a proton pump inhibitor correctly reflects its mechanism of action and therapeutic applications.