Brand name: NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole )
Pronounced: NECKS-ee-um
Generic name: Esomeprazole magnesium
Why is NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) prescribed?
NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) relieves heartburn and other symptoms caused by the backflow
of stomach acid into the canal to the stomach (the esophagus)--a condition
known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is also prescribed to
heal the damage (erosive esophagitis) that reflux disease can cause.
Prescribed in combination with the antibiotics Biaxin and Amoxil,
NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) is also used to treat the infection that causes most duodenal
ulcers (ulcers occurring just beyond the exit from the stomach).
Like its sister drug Prilosec, NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) works by reducing the production
of stomach acid.
Most important fact about NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole )
without a prescriptions:
NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) comes in delayed-release capsules that should be swallowed
whole. Be sure to avoid crushing or chewing the capsules.
How should you take NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole )?
Take NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) at least one hour before meals. Be careful to swallow
it whole. If you have trouble swallowing capsules, you can open the
capsule and carefully pour the pellets onto one tablespoon of applesauce.
The applesauce should not be hot. Mix in the pellets, then swallow
the applesauce immediately, without chewing.
If you miss a dose NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole )
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next
dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Never take 2 doses at the same time.
Storage instructions NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole )
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.
NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ).
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache
Why should NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) not be prescribed?
If NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) gives you an allergic reaction, or you've ever had an allergic
reaction to Prilosec, you will not be able to use this medication.
Special warnings about NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole )
The antibiotics prescribed in conjunction with NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) for the treatment
of ulcers have occasionally been known to cause severe side effects
and life-threatening allergic reactions. If you've been prescribed
this combination, be sure to check the entries on Amoxil and Biaxin
for more information.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole )
If NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) with the following:
Diazepam (Valium)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Iron salts (Ferro-Sequels)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
There's no problem, however, with combining antacids and NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ); no
unwanted interaction will result.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) during pregnancy have not been adequately studied.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, check with your doctor.
Because NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) is likely to appear in breast milk and could harm a
nursing infant, you'll need to choose between taking NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) or breastfeeding
your baby.
Recommended dosage for NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole )
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. There
have been some reports of NEXIUM ( Esomeprazole ) overdoses. If you suspect an overdose,
seek medical attention immediately.
