NHS Omeprazole Warning – Should You Get a Blood Test?

Why the NHS Is Warning Patients

The NHS recently issued a warning about omeprazole, a widely used drug for heartburn and indigestion. Omeprazole belongs to a group of medicines called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), prescribed to reduce stomach acid. Millions of people in the UK take it daily. But what many do not realise is that long-term use of omeprazole can cause serious health issues that are only detectable through blood tests.

At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, 73 Baker Street, we offer fast, discreet, and same-day private blood tests in London. These can help detect hidden side effects linked to prolonged omeprazole use.

Why the NHS Is Warning Patients

Omeprazole is effective for acid reflux, heartburn, gastritis, and stomach ulcers. But new NHS guidance highlights that long-term use may lead to:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency – PPIs reduce stomach acid, making it harder to absorb vitamin B12.
• Magnesium deficiency – low magnesium can cause muscle weakness, cramps, and irregular heartbeat.
• Kidney problems – including chronic kidney disease.
• Increased risk of infections – such as Clostridium difficile in the gut.
• Bone fractures – due to reduced calcium and vitamin D absorption.

These issues develop slowly and are often silent. Without testing, many people may not realise their health is declining until serious symptoms appear.

The Role of Blood Tests – Book Now

If you take omeprazole regularly, especially for more than three months, blood testing is recommended. At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, we provide the following checks:

• Vitamin B12 blood test – detects deficiency that may cause fatigue, memory issues, and tingling in hands or feet.
• Magnesium blood test – identifies low magnesium levels affecting muscles, nerves, and heart rhythm.
• Calcium and vitamin D tests – measure bone health and fracture risk.
• Kidney function panel (eGFR, creatinine, urea) – monitors how well your kidneys are working.
• Liver function test (LFT) – checks for liver stress or damage.
• Full blood count (FBC) – provides a complete picture of general health.

All these tests are available privately in central London without GP referral.

Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

Many people taking omeprazole overlook early warning signs. Book a test if you experience:

• Ongoing tiredness or weakness
• Pins and needles in hands or feet
• Muscle cramps or spasms
• Unexplained bone pain
• Frequent infections
• Changes in urine output or swelling in ankles

These symptoms could indicate vitamin deficiencies, electrolyte imbalance, or kidney stress.

Private Blood Testing in Central London

At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, our goal is to make health testing simple, fast, and accurate. We are located at 73 Baker Street, close to Harley Street and Paddington.

Patients choose us for:

• No waiting lists – book online or by phone today.
• Same-day appointments and rapid results.
• Specialist health profiles for medication monitoring.
• Confidential and discreet service.

Our Medication Monitoring Blood Panel covers vitamin B12, magnesium, calcium, vitamin D, and kidney function — exactly what long-term omeprazole patients need.

Omeprazole Alternatives and Monitoring

Doctors may recommend alternative treatments for reflux or indigestion. Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, reducing alcohol, eating smaller meals, and avoiding late-night snacks often help. However, many patients still require PPIs like omeprazole.

This is why regular blood testing is vital. You do not need to stop your medication, but you do need to monitor your health carefully.

Marylebone Diagnostic Centre – High Standards, Fast Results

Our clinic operates under the Marylebone High Standard for diagnostics, ensuring that every blood test is carried out with the same precision as hospital-based laboratories.

We provide:

• Vitamin and mineral deficiency tests
• Kidney and liver health checks
• Comprehensive blood MOTs – Book Now
• Targeted testing for medication side effects

Take Control of Your Health

If you are taking omeprazole, do not wait for symptoms to appear. Book a private blood test today and gain peace of mind. Early detection is the key to avoiding complications.

📍 Visit us at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, 73 Baker Street, London.
📞 Call +44 7495 970109 to book your test.
💻 Appointments available online — no referral required.