A pharmacy techniclan is assisting a patient who states he wants to purchase omeprazole (Prilosec) 20 mg tablets. Which of the following statements should the technician make to the patient? "Prilosec can be purchased over-the-counter" "You must have a prescription from your doctor to purchase omeprazole." "You can purchase pantoprazole over-the counter for the same purpose." "Prilosec is only avallable in a 40-mg tablet so you will need to cut the pills in half."

## Step 1<br />The problem is about understanding the legal and medical requirements for purchasing a specific medication, omeprazole (Prilosec). The pharmacy technician is assisting a patient who wants to buy 20 mg tablets of this medication.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used to treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. It works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />In many countries, including the United States, omeprazole is available only by prescription. This means that a patient cannot purchase it over-the-counter without a prescription from a healthcare provider.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />The other options provided in the question are incorrect for the following reasons:<br />- "Prilosec can be purchased over-the-counter." This is incorrect because omeprazole requires a prescription.<br />- "You can purchase pantoprazole over-the-counter for the same purpose." This is misleading because while pantoprazole is similar to omeprazole, it is also a prescription medication.<br />- "Prilosec is only available in a 40-mg tablet so you will need to cut the pills in half." This is incorrect. Omeprazole is available in various strengths, including 20 mg tablets, and patients should not alter the dosage or form of medication without consulting a healthcare provider.