Nexium
Nexium contains the active ingredient esomeprazole, which is a type of medicine called a proton pump inhibitor. Esomeprazole acts in the stomach to decrease the production of stomach acid. It helps reduce irritation to the lining of the stomach, allowing the stomach lining to heal. This has a beneficial effect on stomach problems. Nexium is a prescription-only medicine.
What is Nexium?
Nexium contains the active ingredient esomeprazole, which is a type of medicine called a proton pump inhibitor. Esomeprazole acts in the stomach to decrease the production of stomach acid. It helps reduce irritation to the lining of the stomach, allowing the stomach lining to heal. This has a beneficial effect on stomach problems. Nexium is a prescription-only medicine.
What is Nexium used for?
Nexium is used to treat stomach problems such as stomach pain, pyrosis (heartburn), gastro-oesophageal reflux, bloating and belching. These problems can be caused by peptic ulcers, oesophagitis (inflammation of the lining of the oesophagus) or other stomach conditions. Nexium can also be prescribed as a stomach coater to prevent stomach problems that can occur as a side effect of certain drugs that irritate the stomach.
How to use Nexium
Nexium tablets should be swallowed whole with some water, preferably at the same time each day. Do not crush or chew them. Nexium can be taken with or without food. The number of tablets to take, how often and for how long will depend on the condition being treated. It is important to follow the instructions given by your doctor. If your symptoms have not improved in two weeks, you should talk to your doctor.
Dosage
Nexium is available in tablets of 20 mg and 40 mg. Unless otherwise prescribed by the doctor, the recommended dose for most stomach problems is:
- Adults: one 20-mg tablet, once or twice a day.
- Children aged 12 to 18: one 20-mg tablet, once a day.
This medicine is not suitable for use in children under the age of 12. Read the package leaflet before use.
Side effects
Nexium may cause side effects such as:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms;
- Headache;
- Dizziness.
Most side effects will disappear within a few days once the body adjusts to the medicine. Consult a doctor if the side effects are persistent. For a complete list of possible side effects, see the package leaflet.
When not to use Nexium
Nexium is not suitable for everyone and should not be used if:
- You are allergic to esomeprazole or other drugs that contain proton pump inhibitors;
- You are allergic to any of the active ingredients in this medicine;
- You are taking the anti-HIV medicine nelvinafir.
Consult a doctor before using this medicine if you have health problems such as a severe liver or kidney disorder. Be sure to tell the doctor what other medicines you are taking when you order. This is to avoid potential interaction and to make sure that the combination with Nexium is safe.
Pregnancy/driving ability/alcohol
Nexium should not be used by pregnant women without consulting a doctor first. Do not take Nexium if you are breast-feeding because it is not known if the medicine passes into breast milk. Nexium may cause dizziness, especially during the first days of treatment. Stay out of traffic if you experience this side effect. Alcohol irritates the stomach. Keep away from alcohol if you have stomach problems.
