Q: What is Nexium?
A: Nexium belongs to a class of medicines known as proton pump inhibitors, which are used to treat acid reflux disease and to provide relief from heartburn. Nexium decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach. Doctors prescribe Nexium for the following conditions:
- To treat and to prevent recurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This heartburn medication repairs the esophageal lining that has been eroded by GERD.
- To prevent stomach ulcers associated with continuous use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Nexium can be prescribed along with antibiotics such as amoxicillin and clarithromycin to treat ulcers in the duodenum and to prevent their recurrence.
- For the long-term treatment of conditions that cause excessive acid production in the stomach.
Q: What is the generic name for Nexium?
A: The generic name for Nexium is esomeprazole magnesium.
Q: How is Nexium heartburn medication sold?
A: Nexium is available by prescription and is most commonly prescribed in a delayed-release capsule.
Q: Both Nexium and Prilosec are well-known heartburn medications. Are they the same?
A: While Nexium and Prilosec are both proton pump inhibitors used to treat heartburn and acid reflux disease, they contain different active ingredients. The active ingredient in Prilosec is omeprazole, while Nexium contains esomeprazole magnesium. In addition, you must have a prescription to buy Nexium, while Prilosec can be purchased over-the-counter.
Q: What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Nexium heartburn medication?
A: Make sure to discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider before taking Nexium, including the following:
- All drug allergies, especially allergies to any ingredient contained in Nexium or to any other acid reflux treatment or heartburn medication.
- All other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
- If you have any liver or stomach problems.
- Any other health problems you are suffering from other than acid reflux or heartburn.
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Q: Is it safe to take Nexium heartburn medication when I’m pregnant?
A: The effects of Nexium on an unborn baby are not known. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of heartburn medication before taking Nexium.
Q: Is it safe to take Nexium when I’m breastfeeding?
A: Based on information for similar acid heartburn and reflux treatments, Nexium can pass into breast milk and may be harmful to a baby. Consult with your doctor about breastfeeding before taking Nexium.
Q: How should I take Nexium heartburn medication?
A: Observe the following precautions while taking Nexium:
- Only take Nexium under the supervision of your healthcare provider, irrespective of whether you have used it as an acid reflux treatment or heartburn medication before.
- Before you start taking Nexium, read the patient information that comes with the medicine. However, patient information provided by the manufacturer is not a substitute for the advice of a licensed physician or pharmacist.
- Take Nexium on an empty stomach at least one hour before eating or as directed by your doctor.
- Always swallow the Nexium capsule whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing it. If you have trouble swallowing the whole capsule, open it, mix the contents into water, fruit juice or apple sauce, and swallow the entire mixture.
- Continue to take Nexium for the prescribed duration, even if you feel better.
- If you have been prescribed imidazole antifungal drugs, make sure to take them at least two hours before taking Nexium. If you are taking sucralfate, take Nexium at least half-an-hour before taking the sucralfate.
Q: Are there any drugs that I should avoid while taking Nexium?
A: Before you begin taking Nexium heartburn medication, inform your doctor about all other prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking, including herbal and dietary supplements. As with any medication, there is a possibility that Nexium may react with some other drugs that you are taking:
- Some drugs such as voriconazole may increase the risk of side effects of Nexium.
- Nexium may increase the side effects of certain drugs including anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin), cilostazol, and digoxin.
- Nexium may decrease the effectiveness of some azole antifungals, HIV treatment drugs, and iron salts.
Q: Are there any other activities that I should avoid while taking Nexium?
A: Avoid the following while using Nexium:
- Although uncommon, Nexium can make you dizzy. Use caution while engaging in activities that require alertness such as driving or operating machinery.
- Limit your alcohol intake. Drinking alcohol while using Nexium may increase the risk of dizziness.
Q: What are the possible side effects of Nexium?
A: Many people who use Nexium heartburn medication experience only minor side effects or none at all.
- Common side effects of Nexium can include dry mouth, constipation, gas, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, and nausea. Seek medical attention if any of these side effects worsen.
- Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following rare but potentially serious side effects occur: acute stomach pain, persistent nausea, unusual tiredness, vomiting, dark urine, or yellowing of the eyes and/or skin.
- Long-term heartburn treatment with Nexium (more than three years) may result in symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency. Those symptoms are: sore tongue, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, or unusual weakness.
Q: What are the possible allergic reactions to Nexium heartburn medication?
A: If you are allergic to Nexium or to similar acid reflux treatment drugs such as lansoprazole or omeprazole, inform your doctor before taking this medication. A serious allergic reaction to Nexium is unlikely, but talk to your doctor immediately if one develops. Possible signs of an allergic reaction to Nexium include:
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling
- Dizziness
- Difficulty in breathing
Q: How can I buy Nexium online?
A: Online pharmacies such as eDrugstore.com offer a discreet and convenient way to buy Nexium online while saving money. Visit the Nexium product information page for information on pricing and ordering.
For more articles about heartburn, acid reflux and how Nexium can help, visit our online knowledge base.
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