Nexium

Nexium® (esomeprazole) belongs to a group of medications called proton pump studies. It is used in peptic ulcer disease, dyspepsia and Zollinger-Ellison use. In Israel, Nexium® does not come in a capsule, although it is the same as the Nexium® available for purchase in the US. Nexium® is a delayed-release tablet and is usually prescribed with a starting dose of 40 mg once daily. Common side effects include headache, diarrhea, upset stomach, bloating, fullness, nauseousness, dry mouth, and abdominal banding.

Description: Nexium

This medication contains the substance esomeprazole. It belongs to the group of medicines called proton pump inhibitors. It reduces the amount of acid in your stomach. This medication is used to treat the following diseases: gastroesophageal reflux disease, stomach ulcers or ulcers, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and to prevent new bleeding from an ulcer.

Nexium: Use

• The recommended dosage is 20mg of esomeprazole (one tablet) per day. The tablets should be swallowed whole with half a glass of water. The tablets should not be chewed or crushed.
• Alternatively, the tablets can be dissolved in half a glass of non-carbonated water. Other liquids should not be used, as the stomach acid-resistant coating could dissolve. The water should be stirred until the tablet has disintegrated. The liquid with the granules should be drunk immediately or within 30 minutes. The glass should be rinsed with half a glass of water and this water should be drunk. The granules should not be chewed or crushed.
• It may be necessary to take the tablets for 2-3 consecutive days to obtain an improvement of the symptoms. The duration of the treatment is a maximum of 2 weeks. Once complete relief of the symptoms has occurred, the treatment should be stopped.

Nexium Dosage

The dosage of Nexium depends on the condition being treated and the individual patient. Common adult dosages are:

• Heartburn: 20 mg once daily
• GERD: 40 mg once daily
• Peptic ulcers: 40 mg twice daily

It is important to take Nexium on an empty stomach with a glass of water. You should not chew or crush the tablets.

Nexium Side Effects

The most common Nexium side effects include:

• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Gas
• Sore throat
• Cough

More serious side effects include:

• Allergic reactions
• Low magnesium levels
• Short-term memory loss
• Liver damage
• Bone fractures