Pyrocalm Control Peppermint Omeprazole 20mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets - 14 Tablets
What is Pyrocalm Control?
Pyrocalm Control is an over-the-counter, once-a-day heartburn tablet containing 20mg of omeprazole, a type of medicine called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).
It's used for the short-term treatment of acid reflux. This is when acid flows back up from your stomach into your food pipe (oesophagus), which can cause a burning feeling in your chest and a sour taste in your mouth.
How does it work?
Omeprazole works by blocking the tiny pumps in your stomach lining that make acid. With less acid being produced, there's less to rise back up into your food pipe.
The tablets have a gastro-resistant coating, which protects the omeprazole from stomach acid so it can be released further along in your intestine.
How long does Pyrocalm Control take to work?
Pyrocalm Control isn't designed for instant relief. You may need to take it for 2-3 days in a row before your symptoms improve. If you need quicker relief in the meantime, an antacid or alginate like Gaviscon or Rennie works faster.
How to take Pyrocalm Control
Take one tablet once a day, preferably 30-60 minutes before breakfast. You can take it with food or on an empty stomach. Swallow it whole with half a glass of water.
Don't chew or crush it, as this would damage the coating that protects the omeprazole. Don't take it for more than 14 days in a row without speaking to your doctor or pharmacist first.
Side effects of Pyrocalm Control
Like all medicines, Pyrocalm Control can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Common side effects may include:
- headaches
- stomach pain
- constipation
- diarrhoea
- wind
- feeling sick (nausea)
- being sick (vomiting)
For further information on side effects, including potentially serious side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet.
Who shouldn't take Pyrocalm Control
Don't take Pyrocalm Control if you:
- are allergic to omeprazole, other PPIs (like pantoprazole, lansoprazole, rabeprazole, or esomeprazole), or any of the other listed ingredients
- are taking nelfinavir, a medicine used for HIV
- are under 18
Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:
- are due to have a Chromogranin A blood test, an endoscopy, or a urea breath test
- don't absorb vitamin B12 very well
- take other medicines, including clopidogrel, warfarin, or some antifungal treatments
- are pregnant or breastfeeding
- have liver problems
Alternatives to Pyrocalm Control
Here are some alternatives to treat your heartburn and acid reflux symptoms if Pyrocalm Control isn't the right fit for you:
- Omeprazole 20mg gastro-resistant capsules: A prescription-only alternative containing the same active ingredient as Pyrocalm Control in a capsule instead of a tablet.
- Losec gastro-resistant capsules: Losec is another branded version of omeprazole, and its gastro-resistant capsules work in the same way.
- Gaviscon: Available in multiple formulas, it forms a protective layer on top of your stomach contents and stops acid rising into your food pipe. It brings fast relief but works differently from omeprazole.
- Rennie: Contains calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate that neutralise excess stomach acid quickly, so it suits occasional heartburn rather than longer-term control.
Frequently asked questions about Pyrocalm Control Peppermint
Is Pyrocalm Control the same as omeprazole?
Pyrocalm Control is a branded version of omeprazole. Each tablet contains 20mg of omeprazole, the same active ingredient used in the generic (unbranded) product.
Why is omeprazole less effective at night?
Omeprazole can only block acid pumps that are actively working, and eating switches those pumps on. When taken in the morning, ideally before breakfast, it's already in your system when those pumps start working.
Sources
- Pyrocalm Control patient information leaflet. Electronic medicines
compendium (emc). [Accessed 16th October 2026].
