Brand Name: Nexium
Generic Name: Esomeprazole magnesium

Nexium [Esomeprazole magnesium] Description

Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that specifically works on the proton pump by blocking the enzymes in the gastric parietal cells, which results in secretion of lower amounts of gastric acid. This prevents the throwback [reflux] of food from the esophagus to the stomach, acidity, heartburn, indigestion, belching, nausea and abdominal pain that can occur in gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD], erosive esophagitis [EE], dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease [PUD], and the rare Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome [ZES].

Uses of Nexium

This medicine is meant for short-term treatment of GERD in adults and children above 1, and erosive esophagitis. It is given to treat gastric ulcers in patients who may at risk while taking NSAIDs, and it is combined with antibiotics to treat PUD as well as to cure H.pylori infections. In ZES, it is a long-term treatment.

Nexium is available in tablet/capsule strengths of 20mg and 40mg, as well as an oral suspension.

How to Use Nexium

Take the dose exactly as prescribed. The dosage depends on individual condition, the disorder being treated, and varies in adults and children. The tablets can be taken with water, but should be swallowed whole, and not chewed or crushed. For those who have difficulty in swallowing, the contents of the capsule can be mixed with a spoonful of applesauce or yogurt, and eaten at once. It should be taken 1 hour before meals.

Missed Dose of Nexium

If you miss a dose, speak to your doctor. Depends on the disorder whether you have to take 1 dose in a day, or more than 1. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but if time is nearing for your regular dose, then leave the missed dose and follow your regular schedule, but don't double your dose.

Side-effects of Nexium

Some of the common, less serious side effects may include:-

• Diarrhea, conversely constipation
• Nausea, maybe even vomiting
• Gas
• Abdominal/stomach-pain
• Headaches
• Burping/belching
• Dry mouth.

An allergic reaction such as:- itching, rash, hives, labored breathing, tightness in the chest, or swelling means that you should stop the medicine and ask your doctor for help.

Overdose of Nexium

Overdose symptoms may include: severe perspiration, unusually rapid heartbeat, blurred vision, or confusion. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim collapses or stops breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Interactions of Nexium

Amongst the medicines with which Esomeprazole interacts, are the following:-

• Penicillin antibiotics like Ampicillin
• Antifungals such as Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, or Voriconazole
• Cardiac medicines like Digoxin
• Drugs for intermittent claudication such as Cilostazol
• Anticoagulants like Warfarin
• Protease inhibitors for HIV/AIDS such as Atazanavir, Nelfinavir, or Saquinavir
• Cancer medicines like Dasatinib
• Iron supplements
• Calcium supplements.

Storage of Nexium

After you buy Nexium, store it at a room temperature of 25oC, safe from heat, light and dampness out of reach of children and pets.

Precautions of Nexium

• It is recommended that you take your meals, milk and milk-based products at least 2-3 hours prior to bedtime, to prevent reflux.
• Eating small meals frequently will help to prevent GERD, as there will be some food present in the stomach, most of the time.
• GERD patients will also benefit if they wear loose-fitting clothes.
• If you sleep with your head raised by 6"-8", it will minimize reflux.
• It is recommended that you do not attempt to treat yourself by taking, increasing, decreasing, or stopping the medicine on your own.
• Never share your medicine with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms it can do more harm than good to that person.

Notes of Nexium

Read the Patient Information every time you buy a refill - it may have some new information. Your physician will be able to tell you more about the uses, side effects, interactions, and precautions associated with this medication.