Although Zegerid powder for oral suspension is currently indicated for adults, it can be used in children when mixed according to these instructions. Omeprazole, the active ingredient in Zegerid, is approved for use in children. The only other PPI approved for use in children (under 12 years old) is lansoprazole.

If your child is 2 years of age or younger, it is generally best to use the 40mg packet of Zegerid along with Mylanta Cherry Supreme. The higher ratio of bicarb of the 20mg packets of Zegerid may cause trouble with some infants (vomiting, gas, taste aversion or refusal to take). This can be counteracted by switching to the 40 mg packets and adding one equal part Mylanta Cherry Supreme. Click 40mg packet of Zegerid for instructions.

Resultant volume: 10 mL
Concentration: 2 mg per 1 mL of suspension
Stability: 28 days when refrigerated, 7 days at room temperature*

Prior to use, shake well.
Between each use, keep refrigerated.

Click for more information on the 20 mL oral dosing syringe used in preparing the suspension.

1. You will need the following:
1. 20 or 30 cc syringe with tip cap
2. 20 mg packet of Zegerid
3. 5 or 10 cc oral dosing syringe with tip cap
4. 6.5 mL of water
2. Remove the plunger from the large syringe and close the end with a tip cap.
3. Fill the large syringe from the back with 6.5 mL of water.
4. Open the Zegerid packet with scissors.
5. Pour the contents of the packet into the large syringe from the plunger end, and replace the plunger. Shake the syringe until the powder is completely dissolved. Set aside.
6. Remove the plunger from small oral dosing syringe and close the end with a tip cap.
7. Dispense one dose of Zegerid into the small syringe from the plunger end. Replace the plunger in the small syringe and replace the tip cap on the large syringe. Store the large syringe in the refrigerator until the next dose is needed.
8. Remove the tip cap from the small syringe and administer the dose to your child orally, squirting it slowly in the back of their cheek. Alternatively, the dose can be mixed with a small amount of the child’s milk or formula and given to drink. Just make sure that the child can drink the whole amount so that they get the full dose.

*Burnett J, Balkin E.  Stability and viscosity of a flavored omeprazole oral suspension for pediatric use. Am J Health-Syst Pharm Vol 63; Nov 15, 2006