Nexium, or esomeprazole, is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat heartburn or irritation of the esophagus caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease. Decreasing excess stomach acid can help relieve symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, persistent cough, and trouble sleeping. Generic Nexium also prevent serious acid damage to your digestive system. Esomeprazole is primary intend for patients that have medical conditions due to excessive acid production in the stomach.
Esomeprazole is indicated for short-term treatment (4 to 8 weeks) in healing and symptomatic resolution of duodenal ulcers and GERD. Pediatric use is supported by extrapolation of results from studies that supported the approval for Esomeprazole for adults and safety and pharmacokinetic studies performed in pediatric and adolescent patients. You may take antacids while you are using this medicine if you are directed to do so by your doctor. If you are also taking an imidazole antifungal (eg, ketoconazole), take it at least 2 hours before taking this medicine. If you also take sucralfate, take this medicine at least 30 minutes before taking sucralfate.
Esomeprazole magnesium is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation or to substituted benzimidazoles. Concomitant use of Nexium and atazanavir or nelfinavir is not recommended because the plasma concentrations and therapeutic effects of those antiretroviral drugs may be reduced. Before you start to follow a treatment with this drug, you should alert your personal physician if you are suffering from any type of liver disease. Patients who have liver malfunctions or liver disorders are not regularly allowed to use this medicine, as Esomeprazole might begin to build up in the organism. This medicine should be used with caution in children; they may be more likely to experience drowsiness from this medicine. As with all PPIs, patients treated concomitantly with warfarin may need to be monitored for increases in INR and prothrombin time when esomeprazole interfere with the absorption of drugs. If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Like other medications, Nexium may cause some side effects. But not all the people taking the drug will have them. In case they occur, one most probably won't need any special treatment as most of the side effects are minor and can be cured by your therapist or you yourself. Among the typical side effects caused by Nexium are: migraine, diarrhea, nausea, windiness, abdominal pains, constipation, dry mouth. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.