Generic Nexium - esomeprazole - decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach. Esomeprazole is used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or heartburn), erosive esophagitis, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production. Nexium may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


 

FAQ

How does Nexium work?
Nexium (brand name made by AstraZeneca plc) is a type of medicine known as an acid pump inhibitor (also known as a proton pump inhibitor, or PPI). The lining of your stomach contains millions of special cells that produce acid via "acid pumps." It is the job of these pumps to produce the acid that helps in the digestion of food.
Nexium works by decreasing the acid produced by these acid pumps. It turns off (deactivates) some of the pumps to keep acid production under control. By reducing acid production in the stomach, esomeprazole reduces the amount of acid backing up into the esophagus and causing reflux symptoms. But don't worry, you still have enough acid to take care of digestion.

How to use Nexium
Take Nexium exactly as directed by your doctor. Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. The medication should be taken at least one hour before a meal. Follow your doctor's instructions. Do not break or chew the capsules of Nexium. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to release slowly in the body. If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules of Nexium, one tablespoon of applesauce can be added to an empty bowl and the esomeprazole capsule can be opened, and the pellets inside the capsule carefully emptied onto the applesauce. The pellets should be mixed with the applesauce and then swallowed immediately. The pellet / applesauce mixture should not be stored for later use. Do not stop taking Nexium even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the condition is fully treated. Store Nexium at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Nexium side effects
Esomeprazole, like other PPIs, is well-tolerated. The most common side effects are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headaches, rash and dizziness. Nervousness, abnormal heartbeat, muscle pain, weakness, leg cramps and water retention occur infrequently.

Special warnings about Nexium
The antibiotics prescribed in conjunction with Nexium 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.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Nexium during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, check with your doctor.
Because Nexium is likely to appear in breast milk and could harm a nursing infant, you'll need to choose between taking Nexium or breastfeeding your baby.