I think it's perfectly reasonable to ask on a forum like this for people's experience of a drug like this which can be bought over the counter, though also often prescribed.
From my knowledge, it is sometimes used long term but more recent studies have shown that long term use of ppi's such as omeprazole can increase risk of osteoporosis as well as other negative effects.
My own experience was that after telling my GP about my acid reflux, I was referred for a gastroscopy which showed a hiatus hernia. I was prescribed Lanzoprazole which initially seemed like a miracle drug! However, after a few weeks I developed increasingly worse diarrhea. At first I didn't connect it with drug but eventually decided to Google side effects and diarrhea was mentioned. Almost as soon as I stopped taking it, the diarrhea stopped. I then reverted to my previous practice of ranitidine (similar to famotidine) and Rennies! At next visit to GP I explained my experience and he was happy for me to continue this regime. I occasionally take omeprazole or similar for a day or two if I've been getting a lot of reflux.
There's nothing wrong with Googling side effects of medications, as long as you stick to reputable sites like NHS. Also it's important to understand why you're on particular medications and whether stopping may be dangerous. I'm on thyroxine because I had thyroid removed and also an anti-coagulant and Beta-blocker for heart condition. I know I will have to continue taking these, but for many people with acid reflux, it's a different situation.
