Nexium (Esomeprazole)

• Before starting to take Nexium, read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider for clarification.
• Take Nexium by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily, at least 1 hour before a meal. The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage may be based on weight.
• This medication may also be given through a tube into the stomach (nasogastric or gastric tube). If you are giving this medication through a nasogastric or gastric tube, ask your healthcare provider for detailed instructions on how to properly mix and administer it.
• If you are taking the 2.5-milligram or 5-milligram packets of Nexium, you should empty the contents of a packet into a container with water, stir the mixture well, and then drink all of the mixture within 30 minutes. If any medication remains in the container, add more water, stir, and drink right away to ensure you take the entire dose.
• If you are taking any other strength of this medication, the process is similar, but you will use a different amount of water. Follow the specific instructions provided.
• For delayed-release capsules, do not crush or chew the capsules. Swallow the capsules whole. If you have difficulty swallowing the medication whole, you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents into a tablespoon of unheated applesauce. Then, swallow the applesauce mixture right away without chewing it. Do not prepare the mixture ahead of time for later use, as doing so may destroy the drug.
• If needed, antacids may be taken along with this medication. If you are also taking sucralfate, take Nexium at least 30 minutes before sucralfate.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Continue taking this medication for the prescribed length of treatment even if you are feeling better.
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or gets worse. If you are self-treating, inform your healthcare proivder if your heartburn lasts after 14 days or if you need to use this medication more than once every 4 months. The risk of side effects increases over time, necessitating your healthcare provider’s guidance on how long you should take this medication. If you suspect a serious medical problem, seek medical help right away.

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Flatulence
• Dry mouth

Potentially Serious Side Effects

• Kidney problems
• Low magnesium levels
• Bone fractures
• Allergic reactions
• Acne
• Liver problems
• Hypomagnesemia
• Pneumonia

Many people using this medication do not experience serious side effects. However, inform your healthcare provider if you experience any serious side effects.

Patients should report to their healthcare provider before starting treatment with certain medications, including rilpivirine-containing products, clopidogrel, St. John's Wort or rifampin, and high-dose methotrexate.

Nexium can cause kidney problems, and patients should inform their doctor if they are urinating less than usual or if they have blood in their urine. Additionally, diarrhea may be a sign of a new infection, and patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience watery or bloody diarrhea.

Discuss treatment goals with a healthcare provider if considering stopping Nexium and inquire about alternatives to PPIs that might help, such as H2 blockers, antacids, or lifestyle changes. Patients may need to taper their Nexium dose before stopping it entirely .

These warnings and precautions are crucial for ensuring the safe and effective use of Nexium. Always consult a healthcare provider  for personalized advice and to ensure the information applies to your specific circumstances.