The 1/2 and 1/2 is a good idea. I used to suffer from very painful heartburn and took Omeprazole daily and it would control it . After using it for years my family practice doctor said I should try to go off it and each time I did the symptoms reappeared. With all the news about the side effect of long term use of this drug I did give it up and started each day with a piece of string cheese with my tea. I also drink a cup of decaf after dinner, so that intake is on a full stomach. It seems coating our stomachs to block the acid it a big help. Haven't taken Omeprazole in over 6 months now and no issues.