Nexium (Esomeprazole)

Description

Nexium is a prescription medication that comes in delayed-release capsules and an oral suspension.

Erosive esophagitis (EE), heartburn and other symptoms caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Helicobacter pylori, and pathological hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome can be treated by Nexium. The risk of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-associated gastric ulcer can be decreased by Nexium.

Directions

Nexium should be taken exactly as instructed by your doctor. Any questions or concerns should be discussed with your doctor or pharmacist.

The Nexium dosage is dependent upon age and what condition is being treated. You will be informed by your doctor about how much Nexium is right for you and the duration of treatment.

Do not crush or chew Nexium capsules, as they should be swallowed whole. Opening the capsule and mixing the contents with applesauce is an option if you are unable to swallow the capsule whole.

Oral suspension packets of Nexium should be mixed with water.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Nexium is esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor. Inactive ingredients are contained in the capsules and the oral suspension. For a full list of ingredients, see the package insert.

Contraindications

Patients who have an allergy to substituted benzimidazole or to any of Nexium’s ingredients should avoid taking the medication.

If patients are also taking medications that contain rilpivirine, they should not take Nexium.

Cautions

• Before beginning treatment with Nexium, tell your doctor:
• About any and all prescription and nonprescription medications you take
• About any allergies you may have
• About your medical history and current health conditions
• If you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding
• An adequate response to Nexium does not mean there is no gastric cancer; therefore, follow-up and diagnostic testing should be considered in adults who have a suboptimal response or an early symptomatic relapse after completion of Nexium treatment.
• Nexium can cause acute tubulointerstitial nephritis.
• The risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea may be increased by Nexium.
• The risk for osteoporosis-related hip, wrist, or spine fractures may be increased by Nexium.
• Nexium use may cause severe cutaneous adverse reactions.
• Nexium can cause cutaneous and systemic lupus erythematosus. If this occurs, treatment should be stopped and the patient should be evaluated by a specialist.
• Do not take Plavix (clopidogrel), St. John’s Wort, or rifampin while taking Nexium.
• Vitamin B12 malabsorption or deficiency may occur with long-term use of Nexium.
• Long-term use of Nexium may cause low magnesium levels and mineral metabolism.
• Nexium may interfere with diagnostic investigations for neuroendocrine tumors; therefore, it should be temporarily stopped for at least 14 weeks before diagnostic investigations.
• Taking Nexium with methotrexate may cause an elevation or prolongation of serum concentrations of methotrexate and/or its metabolite, leading to toxicity.
• Using Nexium long-term can cause a greater risk of fundic gland polyps.

Side Effects

Side effects associated with Nexium include headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, stomach pain, constipation, and dry mouth; however, these are not the only side effects that can occur. Immediately talk to your doctor if you experience bothersome or persistent side effects.

Reference:

Nexium. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP; 2022.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....