Vimovo (Naproxen/Esomeprazole Magnesium)

Do’s

• Before starting to use Vimovo and each time you get a refill, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider for clarification.
• Vimovo should be taken by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider. Typically, it is taken twice daily – in the morning and evening – at least 30 minutes before a meal.
• Take Vimovo with a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water, unless your healthcare provider directs you otherwise.
• Vomovo tablet should be swallowed whole. 
• If needed, antacids can be taken while using Vimovo.
• The dosage of Vimovo is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on weight.
• To reduce the risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, take Vimovo at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
• Use Vimovo regularly to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same times each day. It may take up to 2 weeks of taking this drug until you get the full benefit.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Don’ts

• After taking Vimovo, do not lie down for at least 10 minutes. This helps to ensure proper absorption and reduces the risk of side effects
• Do not break, chew, crush, or dissolve the tablet, as doing so can destroy the slow release of the drug and may increase side effects.
• Do not increase your dose, take it more often, or take it for longer than prescribed.

Common Side Effects:

• Stomach discomfort
• Diarrhea

Other Potential Side Effects:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Flu-like disorder
• Generalized edema
• Malaise
• Pain
• Rigors
• Earache
• Tinnitus
• Vertigo
• Asthenia
• Dysmenorrhea
• Menstrual disorder
• Hot flushes

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver problems
• New or worsening high blood pressure
• Heart failure
• Kidney problems
• Life-threatening allergic reactions
• Asthma attacks in people who have asthma
• Life-threatening skin reactions
• Low red blood cells (anemia)
• Masking symptoms of an infection 

If you experience any symptoms that bother you or that do not go away, talk to your healthcare provider.

Naproxen, an NSAID in Vimovo, can increase the risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, even in individuals without risk factors. Do not use Vimovo just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Vimovo can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as stomach discomfort, diarrhea, peptic ulcers, perforation, or GI bleeding, particularly in older individuals. Be aware of symptoms such as stomach/abdominal pain that doesn't go away, black stools, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds, and seek medical help immediately if these occur.

Naproxen-containing products, including Vimovo, are not recommended for use in patients with moderate to severe or severe renal impairment. Close monitoring and possible dose reduction may be necessary for patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment.

Vimovo is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to naproxen, esomeprazole magnesium, or substituted benzimidazoles. Severe, rarely fatal, anaphylactic-like reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in some patients.

Vimovo may interact with other drugs. Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. Inform your healthcare provider about all your current medicines, as many drugs can interact with esomeprazole and naproxen.

Consult a healthcare provider before taking Vimovo, especially if there are any concerns about its potential side effects or interactions with other medications.