Nexium
EsomeprazoleIndications
- Esomeprazole is used to treat stomach and esophagus issues like acid reflux and ulcers.
- It reduces stomach acid production to alleviate symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and cough.
- The medication aids in healing acid-related damage to the stomach and esophagus, prevents ulcers, and may reduce the risk of esophageal cancer.
- Esomeprazole belongs to the proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) class of drugs.
- Over-the-counter esomeprazole products are available for self-treatment of frequent heartburn (occurring 2 or more days a week).
- It may take 1 to 4 days for these products to have a full effect, and they do not provide immediate relief.
- Carefully read package instructions for over-the-counter products to ensure suitability and check for ingredient changes.
- Different products with similar brand names may have ingredients for different purposes, and using the wrong product could be harmful.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide and Patient Information Leaflet before starting esomeprazole and with each refill.
- Take the medication orally, once daily, at least 1 hour before a meal as directed by your doctor.
- Follow the instructions on the product package if self-treating. Dosage and treatment duration depend on your condition and response.
- Do not crush or chew the capsules; swallow them whole. If swallowing is difficult, open the capsule and sprinkle contents into unheated applesauce, then swallow immediately without chewing.
- Do not prepare the mixture in advance, as it may damage the drug.
- Antacids can be taken if needed, but if using sucralfate, take esomeprazole at least 30 minutes before sucralfate.
- Take the medication regularly at the same time each day for the best results.
- Continue the prescribed treatment duration even if symptoms improve. For over-the-counter use, do not exceed 14 days without doctor direction.
- Inform your doctor if the condition persists or worsens and seek medical help if you suspect a serious problem.
Side effects
- Common side effects may include headache or abdominal pain; inform your doctor if these persist or worsen.
- This medication is prescribed because its benefits outweigh potential side effects; many users don’t experience serious issues.
- Notify your doctor promptly if you encounter severe side effects, such as symptoms of low magnesium levels or signs of lupus.
- Rarely, a severe intestinal condition (C. difficile) may occur; contact your doctor if you develop persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, or blood/mucus in stool.
- Avoid anti-diarrhea or opioid products if you have these symptoms, as they may worsen the condition.
- Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors like esomeprazole may rarely cause vitamin B-12 deficiency; notify your doctor of symptoms like weakness, sore tongue, or numbness/tingling.
- Seek medical help immediately for a very rare allergic reaction, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, severe itching/swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing, or signs of kidney problems.
- This list doesn’t cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice other effects not mentioned.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to esomeprazole or similar drugs, as inactive ingredients may cause reactions.
- Prioritize informing your doctor about your medical history, especially liver disease and lupus.
- Seek immediate medical help for serious conditions like heartburn with lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness, chest/jaw/arm/shoulder pain, unexplained weight loss, or signs of a serious condition such as trouble swallowing, bloody vomit, coffee ground-like vomit, bloody/black stools, heartburn over 3 months, frequent chest pain, wheezing with heartburn, nausea/vomiting, or stomach pain.
- Disclose product usage, including prescription, nonprescription, and herbal products, to your doctor or dentist before surgery.
- Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist the increased risk of bone fractures associated with proton pump inhibitors, particularly with prolonged use, higher doses, and in older adults. Consider preventive measures like calcium and vitamin D supplements.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, including bone loss/fractures and C. difficile infection.
- Children may also be more sensitive to certain side effects.
- During pregnancy, use esomeprazole only if necessary; discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is unclear if esomeprazole passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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