Nexium

Generic Name: Esomeprazole

US Brand Name: Nexium

Other Brand/Trade Names: There are several brand names of Esomeprazole, including Lucen, Esopral and Axagon

Uses

Esomeprazole relieves heartburn and other symptoms caused by the backflow of stomach acid into the canal to the stomach (the esophagus) – a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is also prescribed to heal the damage (erosive esophagitis) that reflux disease can cause.

Active Ingredients: esomeprazole magnesium

Inactive Ingredients: glyceryl monostearate, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, methacrylic acid copolymer type C, polysorbate 80, sugar spheres, talc, and triethyl citrate

Dosage and Forms

Esomeprazole is supplied in delayed-release capsules and in packets for a delayed-release oral suspension. In our on-line pharmacy Esomeprazole comes in delayed-release capsules that should be swallowed whole at least one hour before meals. Be sure to avoid crushing or chewing the capsules. For patients who have difficulty swallowing capsules, Esomeprazole capsule can be opened and mixed with one tablespoon of applesauce and then swallowed immediately. Take Esomeprazole exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If overdose is suspected call your local emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose include: confusion, drowsiness, blurred vision, tachycardia, nausea, diaphoresis, flushing, headache, dry mouth.

Contraindications and Precautions

Esomeprazole are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation or to substituted benzimidazoles. The most frequently reported adverse events with Esomeprazole include headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea.

Side Effects

Esomeprazole 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.

Interactions

Notify your pharmacist or doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Drug interaction studies have shown that Esomeprazole does not have any clinically significant interactions with phenytoin, warfarin, quinidine, clarithromycin or amoxicillin.

The active ingredient of Esomeprazole inhibits gastric acid secretion. Therefore, Esomeprazole may interfere with the absorption of drugs where gastric pH is an important determinant of bioavailability (eg, ketoconazole, iron salts and digoxin).

Coadministration of oral contraceptives, diazepam, phenytoin, or quinidine did not seem to change the pharmacokinetic profile of Esomeprazole.