Nexium (Esomeprazole Magnesium Trihydrate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Nexium Used For?
Nexium is a medication that reduces stomach acid production, helping to relieve symptoms and promote healing of various gastrointestinal conditions.
Primary Uses
Nexium is primarily used to treat reflux oesophagitis, upper gastrointestinal symptoms related to NSAID therapy, peptic ulcers associated with Helicobacter pylori infection, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and bleeding peptic ulcers.
How It Works
Nexium works by decreasing the amount of acid produced in the stomach, which helps alleviate symptoms and allows for healing.
Good to know: Nexium is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Nexium
Nexium can be taken as tablets or granules for suspension. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dose for Nexium tablets is 20 mg or 40 mg daily, while the sachets are typically 10 mg to 20 mg daily, depending on the condition being treated.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- nausea
- vomiting
- constipation
- diarrhea
- headache
- stomach pain
- skin rash
- itchy skin
- dizziness
- dry mouth
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- swelling of the face or lips
- severe skin reactions
- liver inflammation signs
- blood in urine
- changes in urine output
Impulse Control Issues
There is no mention of impulse control issues related to Nexium.
Important Warnings
There are specific warnings to consider before using Nexium.
Who Should Not Take Nexium
Do not take Nexium if you are allergic to esomeprazole or any of its ingredients, or if you are taking atazanavir or cilostazol.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any allergies, liver problems, severe kidney issues, and a history of osteoporosis with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the safety of Nexium during these times is not fully established.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Nexium, affecting its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Nexium works.
- Atazanavir
- Nelfinavir
- Cilostazol
- Ketoconazole
- Itraconazole
- Voriconazole
- Diazepam
- Phenytoin
- Citalopram
- Clomipramine
- Imipramine
- St John's wort
- Clarithromycin
- Rifampicin
- Warfarin
- Clopidogrel
- Digoxin
- Methotrexate
- Tacrolimus
- Mycophenolate mofetil
- Serlotinib
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol and driving while taking Nexium.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Nexium.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Nexium affects you.
Storage
Store Nexium in its original blister pack or sachet in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and heat.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Nexium, seek immediate medical attention or contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nexium typically relieves symptoms rapidly, with healing usually complete within 4 weeks.
Nexium can be taken with or without food.
No, Nexium is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Nexium, as it may not prevent the recurrence of symptoms.
It's advisable to consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Nexium.
There is no specific information regarding weight gain associated with Nexium.
Elderly patients should use Nexium with caution, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.