Losec MUPS Dispersible Gastro Resistant Tablets

What is Losec MUPS?

Losec MUPS is a prescription-strength tablet containing the active ingredient omeprazole. It’s used to treat symptoms of GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disorder) like acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion.

MUPS (multiple unit pellet system) is a type of tablet made up of many tiny pellets compressed together. When in the stomach the pellets break apart releasing the medicine. This type of tablet delivers a delayed release, so that the omeprazole is protected from stomach acid.

Unlike omeprazole capsules, Losec MUPS tablets are able to be dispersed in water making them suitable for people who struggle to swallow tablets.

What is Losec used for?

Losec is used to relieve acid reflux and indigestion, and protect your stomach if you take NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen or naproxen.

How does Losec MUPS work?

Losec MUPS works by reducing the amount of acid you produce in your stomach. Its active ingredient, omeprazole, belongs to a group of medicines called proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) that block the microscopic pumps in your stomach lining that produce acid.

How long does Losec MUPS take to work?

Losec MUPS starts reducing stomach acid after your first dose, but it can take a few days for your symptoms to ease.

For the medication to reach full effect it usually will take about four days of regular use, at which point your symptoms should be less likely to appear.

Omeprazole works gradually, building up in your body over a few days. This means it does not provide the instant relief that antacids do.

How do I take Losec MUPS?

You can take Losec MUPS either by swallowing it whole with a glass of water or allowing it to disperse in water then drinking it.

If you disperse it, drop the tablet in still water, stir, then drink. Afterwards, rinse the glass with water and drink again to make sure you’ve had the full dose.

Regardless of how you take Losec MUPS you should try to do so at the same time each day. It’s best taken in the morning before food and should not be chewed or crushed.

What are the dosages of Losec?

At Chemist4U, the two dosages of Losec MUPS available on prescription, following consultation, are:

• 10mg
• 20mg

If you’re taking Losec MUPS to treat symptoms of acid reflux or indigestion, then you should take 10mg-20mg once daily based on the prescriber’s advice.

If you are taking it for protection from damage to the stomach lining from extended usage of NSAIDs, then the recommended dose is 20mg once daily.

When should I take Losec MUPS?

Losec MUPS should be taken in the morning, before you’ve eaten. It works best if you can take the tablets at the same time each day.

The microscopic pumps in your stomach lining that produce acid start working when you eat, so if you’ve already taken Losec, it can block the pumps more effectively.

What are the side effects of Losec MUPS?

Common side effects of Losec MUPS include:

• headaches
• stomach pain
• nausea
• diarrhoea
• constipation

While these side effects can happen, they are often mild and go with time. These tablets are generally well tolerated and considered to be safe.

For more information about the risks of taking these tablets and a complete list of side effects, you should read the patient information leaflet.

When to seek medical help when taking Losec MUPS

You should speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you have any side effects that don’t go away or bother you in any way.

Additionally, there are some serious side effects that can happen if you take omeprazole for a long time. Seek medical help if any of the following apply to you:

• very low vitamin B12 levels (symptoms like tiredness, dizziness, muscle twitches/weakness)
• an allergic reaction (symptoms like a swollen throat/tongue, difficulty breathing and a raised, itchy rash)

How should Losec MUPS be stored?

Store below 25°C in the original packaging out of site and reach of children.

It should be kept in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture.

Alternatives to Losec MUPS tablets

There are plenty of alternatives to consider if Losec MUPS tablets aren’t right for you.

If you’re looking for cheaper alternatives, generic omeprazole contains the same active ingredient and works in the same way but is usually available at a lower cost than branded options.

If omeprazole isn’t suitable for you, other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can help reduce stomach acid, including:

• lansoprazole
• esomeprazole (e.g. Nexium)
• pantoprazole

If you’d prefer something that isn’t a PPI, there are also options to help relieve heartburn and indigestion, such as:

• Gaviscon
• Rennie tablets

Frequently asked questions about Losec MUPS

Is Losec MUPS the same as omeprazole?

Losec MUPS contains omeprazole, the active ingredient, so it works in the same way.

What’s the difference between Losec and Losec MUPS?

Losec MUPS tablets can be dispersed in water, whereas standard Losec capsules must be swallowed whole.

Is Losec MUPS dissolvable?

Yes, Losec MUPS tablets can be dispersed in water, making them easier to take if you struggle to swallow tablets.

What does MUPS mean on omeprazole?

MUPS stands for ‘multiple unit pellet system’. In medicine, MUPS is a type of tablet formed of many tiny pellets all packed together that release the medicine in your body.

Sources

• Omeprazole (2025). NHS. [Accessed 8 May 2026]